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Abstract
Results of introducing a rapid HIV immunochromatographic test in local health centers in Japan
By: H. Nagano, S. Iki, C. Sato, S. Kudo
Background: Dainascreen HIV-1/2 (Abbott Japan) is a visually read, immuno-chromatographic test for detection of antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2. This rapid HIV diagnostic test was introduced in local health centers of Hokkaido, Japan on April 2004. With the prior test system, two weeks were needed before notifying clients of the test results. Impact of introducing this test system was evaluated.
Methods: a) The total number of HIV tests was compared before and after the introduction of the rapid test system. b) Clients were given a questionnaire on their feelings toward accessibility to health centers, on their appreciation of the new test design, and on confidentiality during the test in health centers. Health center staffs (officers, counselors, laboratory workers) were given a questionnaire on the practical aspects of the rapid test system and about their impression of its use.
Results: There was an 86% increase in the total number of HIV tests in the 2004 fiscal year compared to the 2003 fiscal year. Ninety-six percent of clients appreciated receiving results so quickly, and eighty-one percent felt secure that such testing provided high confidentiality. Among health center staffs, counselors in particular faced difficulties in conducting their work. Ninety-two percent of counselors wanted to get a training course to improve their counseling methods.
Conclusions: There was an increase in the total number of HIV tests performed, indicating that the rapid HIV test service enabled the local health centers to service a larger population. Clients may have felt more comfortable accessing with health centers because of the rapid turnaround of test results for HIV diagnostic testing. Counselors need to be trained in counseling skills related to the use of this rapid testing method.
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