Patient Perceptions of HIV Testing in a Non-Urban Emergency Department's Express Care

Abstract

Introduction This study evaluated participants' acceptance of rapid Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing in the express care of an emergency department (ED) located in a semi-rural, low HIV prevalence area. Methods This was a cross-sectional survey performed in an ED's express care that serves an area with an estimated HIV prevalence of <1%. The survey included 10 questions with answers recorded on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.” Adult English speaking patients, ages 18 to 64 years, who provided consent, were included. Participants were offered a finger-stick rapid HIV screening test but testing was not required for participation. Results A total of 117 participants were enrolled with 71 tested for HIV with no positive results. Participants demonstrated a preference for testing at a PCP's office, although testing in the ED was acceptable to them. They denied negative emotional response about an offer of HIV testing in the ED and did not desire more information about HIV or testing. Conclusions Despite the low prevalence and semi-rural study area, participants were receptive to HIV testing in the ED.