Use of patient-delivered coupons as a vehicle for HIV partner notification: results of a pilot study in Guatemala.

摘要

Historically STI Partner Notification (PN) programs have used referral/contact cards given by index patients to their partners (WHO, 2005; CDC, 2008; Trelle et al., 2007). PN is mandated by Guatemalan law (CRG, 2000) but there are no nationally accepted protocols. We evaluated the use of patient-delivered coupons valid for free HIV testing as a method of HIV PN at one of Guatemala's main HIV clinics located in a national hospital (Anderson et al., 2009). We enrolled adults who had tested HIV positive within the prior three months and had a sexual partner who had not yet been HIV tested. Patients with any positive answers to a domestic violence screen were excluded. All patients provided informed consent. Demographic data and a description of their partners were obtained. Patients were given up to four coupons redeemable for a free HIV/ AIDS test. Given concerns over possible negative reactions, counselors did not stress that it was imperative to inform partners. Index patients were invited back for a follow-up interview.