Perception of HIV Testing and Counseling among Integrated Counseling and Testing Center Clients of Tertiary Level Hospitals

Abstract

Background: The purpose of establishing integrated counseling and testing center (ICTC) is to detect HIV at the earliest time, providing information on modes of transmission and prevention of HIV by promoting behavioral change and reducing vulnerability, and informing individuals on HIV prevention, care, and treatment services. Objective: To know the awareness of the clients about ICTC before pretest counseling. Methods: This facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 105 pretest counseling clients who visited ICTC for the first time in 3 ICTCs of tertiary care hospitals attached to a medical college in Mangalore. Result: Majority of the clients were pregnant women (n = 57, 54.30%), and most of the clients were referred by the treating doctor (n = 91, 86.7%). Most of the clients, being unaware of ICTC, are not aware of its functions and activities. Conclusion: Although ICTCs have been functional for nearly a decade, the awareness of ICTC and its functions among the people is poor.