ASHM Report Back
Clinical posts from members and guests of the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) from various international medical and scientific conferences on HIV, AIDS, viral hepatitis, and sexual health.
HIV Self-Testing: assessment of The Usability of the Australian rapid Atomo Device
Mark Bloch elucidated several advantages of rapid self-testing which includes
1. Privacy
2. Convenience
3. Short time interval to obtain result
4. Less anxiety period prior to knowing test result
5. Easy to use in remote communities with little or no access to health care
Results of the NSW study demonstrated a high uptake and usability of people performing a rapid self-testing and also correctly following all the steps.
Clinicians are still concerned about commencing treatment based on results of this self-tests which is also self-reported by patient.
Example, after a patient self-tests, how will a clinician have documented evidence of test result in patients chart prior to commencement of therapy or even referrals to a specialist
In addition, after a positive self-testing and a patient fails to present for treatment, how can one ensure follow ups.
The Atomo device would undoubtedly improve access to HIV testing but much work has to be done regarding guidelines to clarify concerns as above to make it universally acceptable