Grant: HIV Implementation Science - Component 1

An estimated 21% of Canadians with HIV are unaware of their infection. There is a need to improve access to HIV testing to detect infections earlier so individuals can access care early and take steps to prevent transmission to others. Barriers to HIV testing include limited access or reluctance to go to traditional testing sites (doctor's offices and sexually transmitted infection clinics), and the lengthy wait time to receive test results from standard laboratory-based HIV testing (usually 1-2 weeks). These deterrents are particularly significant for those at highest risk of infection, who may be socially marginalized or stigmatized. In rural areas, HIV testing may only be available through doctor's offices and hospitals, yet many Canadians do not have access to a family physician. Pharmacists are among the most trusted and accessible healthcare providers, and are well positioned to improve access to HIV testing. Point of care tests for HIV are easy to administer and results are available within minutes, making them ideal for use in the community pharmacy setting. Point of care testing (POCT) by pharmacists can ensure individuals receive their test results, and facilitate timely linkages to care and treatment. This adaptation grant will look at factors influencing the acceptability and feasibility of pharmacist-provided rapid POCT for HIV in two Canadian provinces, including pharmacies in both urban and rural areas. The effectiveness of pharmacist-delivered POCT will be considered from a variety of perspectives including people living with or at risk of HIV, as well as pharmacists as the service providers.