HIV Testing Uptake: When Testers Are Not Tested – Implications for Reaching the First 95
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajmsi.v4i2.6082Keywords:
HIV Testing Services, HIV Multi-Role Competences, UNAIDS 95-95-95Abstract
Achieving the first UNAIDS 95-95-95 target requires optimizing provider-initiated HIV testing and counselling (PITC). Limited attention has been given to how HIV Testing Services (HTS) providers’ own testing practices influence their ability to convince clients to test. This study assessed HIV testing habits of HIV Testing Services (HTS) providers in Ondo and Ekiti States, Nigeria, and their association with client uptake. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across 200 HTS centres, enrolling 786 active counsellors, testers, or dual-role providers. A structured questionnaire captured socio-demographic data, role, HIV knowledge score, and self-reported recency of HIV testing. Provider activities were observed over three months to document client uptake rates. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression were applied. Only 23% of providers had tested within the last 6 months; 11% had never tested. Testers were more likely to have tested recently (53%) compared to counsellors (8%). Counsellors who tested recently achieved higher client uptake (87%) than those who tested >12 months ago (42%) or never (12%). Independent predictors of client uptake included tertiary education (OR=1.91; 95% CI: 1.44–2.54), being a tester/dual-role provider (OR=2.41; 95% CI: 1.58–3.69), higher knowledge score (OR=3.06; 95% CI: 2.07–4.52), and recent self-testing (OR=2.59; 95% CI: 1.70–3.95). Age was inversely associated (OR = 0.89 per year), and males had slightly higher odds (OR = 1.20). Provider-side factors, especially personal HIV testing behaviour, knowledge, education, and role, strongly influence client uptake. Normalizing regular provider self-testing, enhancing knowledge, and promoting multi-role competency may substantially improve HIV testing coverage, advancing progress toward Nigeria’s 95-95-95 targets.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ogundipe Olubiyi Love, Ekundayo Olajumoke Kemi, Oludare Akinola Joseph, Kajero Ayokunle, Guilavogui Jean Paul Yassa
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