HIV self-testing in India: implementation and qualitative evaluation of a web-based programme with virtual counsellor support.

INTRODUCTION: To achieve epidemic control of infectious diseases, engaging higher-burden populations with accessible diagnostic services is critical. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a promising option. METHODS: We implemented an online HIVST programme for key populations across India. Eligible clients were 18 years or older, self-reported a negative or unknown HIV status and reported not taking antiretroviral therapy. Clients who reported a prior HIV diagnosis were not eligible to receive an HIVST kit. HIVST clients received kits via courier or in person at pre-determined pick-up points supported by trained counselling staff. Virtual counsellors engaged clients online and by phone and offered support to register, access, and complete HIVST free of cost. Virtual counsellors supported clients to report results and engage with follow-up services. Follow-up included linking clients with a positive result to confirmatory testing and HIV care services. We assessed programmatic data across HIV continuum outcomes and conducted a qualitative evaluation through interviews with purposively sampled clients. RESULTS: Between 30 June 2021 and 30 September 2022, 5324 clients ordered an HIVST kit (76% men, 13% women, 7% transgender people, 4% unknown gender). Of the 4282 clients reporting results (94% of those who received a kit), 6% screened positive, among whom 72% (n = 184) completed confirmatory testing. Themes from 41 client interviews included satisfaction about the convenience and privacy of services and the discreet nature of kit delivery. Respondents were drawn to the convenience of HIVST and appreciated gaining courage and comfort throughout the process from virtual counsellor support. For respondents who screened positive, challenges to care linkage included fearing judgemental questions from public providers and wanting more time before starting treatment. Clients shared concerns about kit accuracy and suggested that instructional materials be provided with more diverse language options. CONCLUSIONS: Web-based HIVST services with tailored support appeared to facilitate HIV service access and engagement of harder-to-reach populations across India. Assistance from a community-oriented counsellor proved important to overcome literacy barriers and mistrust  in order to support the HIVST process and service linkage. Learnings can inform global efforts to improve the critical step of diagnosis in achieving epidemic control for HIV and other infectious diseases.

HIV service delivery in the time of COVID-19: focus group discussions with key populations in India.

INTRODUCTION: There are limited data on the impact of COVID-19-associated disruptions and novel HIV service delivery strategies among key populations (KPs) in low- and middle-income countries. In March 2020, in response to COVID-19, the Government of India revised HIV service delivery policies to include community antiretroviral therapy (ART) distribution and multi-month dispensing (MMD) of ART for all people living with HIV (PLHIV). METHODS: To assess the acceptability of these adaptations and impact of the pandemic among KPs, we conducted focus groups in November-December 2020 with purposively sampled men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSWs) and transgender women (TGW) in Telangana and Maharashtra. Seven discussions were conducted. Topics included HIV service access, risk behaviours, economic security and feedback to ensure service continuity. Inductive coding identified themes across topics. RESULTS: Forty-four individuals aged 20-49 years participated in discussions (13 MSM; 16 FSW; and 15 TGW). Twenty-four participants self-identified as living with HIV. People not living with HIV reported challenges in accessing HIV antibody testing at hospitals due to travel restrictions and fear of contracting COVID-19. Participants accessed HIV antibody testing using transportation arranged by community-based organizations after lockdowns eased. PLHIV reported uninterrupted ART refills and generally consistent adherence; however, there were experiences of delayed CD4 and HIV RNA testing. Participants shared appreciation for MMD as it saved time, money, and reduced exposure to COVID-19. Participants expressed gratitude for home deliveries which enabled ART access, yet shared concerns about home-based services causing confidentiality breaches with family/neighbours. Participants voiced preferences for community-based service provision due to proximity, convenient hours, and welcoming environments compared to public hospitals. Other requests included support for income, employment, nutrient-rich food and more accessible mental health, HIV, and other health services. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 restrictions had a greater impact on access to HIV antibody, CD4, and RNA testing services compared to ART access. High acceptance of MMD and community-based services support the continued role of differentiated service delivery models to improve KP access to HIV antibody, CD4, RNA testing services, convenient ART retrieval, and integrated services beyond HIV, which may be critical for survival and wellbeing.