The financial and psychological costs associated with waiting for test results reduce the demand for VCT as well as the proportion of clients who return for their test results. Rapid testing increases demand for services in VCT centers.
Rapid testing increases the proportion of clients who follow through to receive results.
Concerns about partner violence are a barrier to VCT, especially for women, but research in Tanzania with VCT clients has found that the vast majority of men support their partners, regardless of their test result . Carefully designed radio, TV and print advertising increase awareness and use of VCT services. Removing the element of doubt through VCT benefits both HIV positive and HIV negative clients, and has been shown to increase safer sex practices. When service providers and promotion focus on realistic benefits of knowing one's status, the demand for VCT expands. Visit our contact page to find the appropriate resource.