Feasibility and Acceptability of HIV Self-Test Kit Distribution Through PrEP Clients' Social and Sexual Networks to Increase HIV Testing and PrEP Information

Abstract

Objective:To determine the feasibility, acceptability, and implementation of a HIV self-test (HIVST) program through PrEP clients' social and sexual networks.Background:HIV testing is critical for treatment and prevention engagement. HIVST kits can overcome barriers to testing. A negative result is an opportunity to provide PrEP information. We describe implementation factors associated with engaging current Mobile PrEP (MP) clients to distribute HIVST kits and PrEP information through their networks.Setting:Community venues in Miami-Dade County, Florida.Methods:A baseline survey collected network information and explored distribution plans for offering HIVST kits. A follow-up survey evaluated use and distribution. A logic model describes the process of implementation and evaluation. Up to 4 Ora-Quick HIV ST kits were offered to 81 MP clients. A brief training included resources for posttest engagement.Results:Forty-four percent of the kits were reported as distributed. Of 81 MP clients offered kits, 50 (62%) accepted. In a follow-up survey, 77% of MP clients distributed at least 1 kit. Fifty-six (86%) social network members were Latino, and 9 (14%) were Black. Three of 4 MP clients engaged in PrEP discussions (77%) with SN members. Reported reasons for HIVST kit use included convenience, confidentiality, privacy concerns, and discomfort with going to a testing site. MP clients reported that kit distribution was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.Conclusion:HIV ST kits allowed PrEP users to engage others in their social and sexual networks for HIV testing and information regarding PrEP. Work to scale-up this intervention is underway.