BACKGROUND: Community-level social vulnerabilities may affect HIV outcomes. This analysis assessed the association between county-level social vulnerability and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded HIV testing program outcomes. SETTING: HIV testing data from 60 state and local health departments and 119 community-based organizations were submitted to CDC during 2020-2022. METHODS: HIV testing data were combined with the county-level Minority Health Social Vulnerability Index, which measures economic, medical, and social vulnerability. We calculated absolute and relative disparity measures for HIV testing program outcomes (ie, HIV positivity, linkage to HIV medical care, interview for partner services, referral to preexposure prophylaxis providers) between high and low social vulnerability counties. We compared differences in HIV testing program outcomes by demographic factors and test site type. RESULTS: The majority (85.8%) of the 4.9 million tests were conducted in high social vulnerability counties. HIV positivity (1.1%) and linkage to medical care after a new diagnosis (77.5%) were higher in high social vulnerability counties. However, interview for partner services after a new diagnosis (72.1%) and referrals to preexposure prophylaxis providers among eligible HIV-negative persons (48.1%) were lower in high social vulnerability counties. Additionally, the relative disparity in HIV testing program outcomes varied by demographic factors and test site type. CONCLUSIONS: CDC-funded HIV testing programs reach the most vulnerable communities. However, testing outcomes vary by community vulnerability, demographic factors, and test site type. Continued monitoring of the relationship between county-level social vulnerability and HIV testing program outcomes would guide HIV testing efforts and allocate resources effectively to achieve the national goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

Compared with traditional measures of scientific impact, the CDC Science Impact Framework more broadly, directly, and quickly assesses impact of public health science. For 20 CDC-funded HIV prevention projects that were conducted during 2018-2022, health departments documented impact, based on CDC Science Impact Framework domains: Disseminating Science, Creating Awareness, Catalyzing Action, Effecting Change, and Shaping the Future. Health departments reported 282 impacts: the most common were new partnerships (n = 17, Catalyzing Action), capacity building (n = 16, Effecting Change), new projects or initiatives begun (n = 15, Shaping the Future), new collaborations (n = 14, Catalyzing Action), improved program (n = 13, Shaping the Future), new guidelines or practices (n = 13, Effecting Change), and informed persons affected by work (n = 13, Creating Awareness). Health departments documented substantial impact with a simple, timely, and broad approach. Demonstrating impact is important for community-based organizations, funders, and others interested in public health and helps them better understand the value of public health.

BACKGROUND: Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. (EHE) aims to end the HIV epidemic by focusing on 57 jurisdictions most impacted by HIV. METHODS: Using 2021 data from the National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation system, we calculated distributions of CDC-funded HIV tests and HIV testing services outcomes in EHE and non-EHE jurisdictions. We conducted chi-square tests and robust Poisson regression to compare differences in outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 1,753,873 tests conducted, a greater proportion were conducted in EHE (65.7%) versus non-EHE (34.3%) jurisdictions (p<0.001). Greater number of persons newly diagnosed were identified in EHE (n=5,861) versus non-EHE (n=2,329) jurisdictions; newly diagnosed positivity was higher in EHE (0.5%) versus non-EHE (0.4%; PR=1.31, 95% CI: 1.25-1.38) jurisdictions. Among persons newly diagnosed, there were no differences in proportion of linkage to care within 30 days in EHE jurisdictions (77.9%) versus non-EHE jurisdictions (77.1%; PR=1.01, 95% CI: 0.95-1.07). Proportion of persons newly diagnosed interviewed for partner services was lower in EHE (69.0%) versus non-EHE (84.8%; PR=0.81, 95% CI: 0.76-0.87) jurisdictions. CONCLUSION: CDC-funded HIV testing services in EHE jurisdictions conducted more HIV testing and diagnosed more persons. Jurisdictions can further expand HIV testing and related services to continue striving toward EHE goals.

BACKGROUND: Approximately 13% of persons with HIV (PWH) are unaware of their status. To help end HIV, it is important to understand the relationship between the rates of HIV testing and undiagnosed HIV infection. SETTING: Ending the HIV in the U.S. (EHE) jurisdictions. METHODS: Using 2021 data from the National HIV Surveillance System and the National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation system, we calculated estimated rates of undiagnosed HIV infections per 100,000 population and rates of CDC-funded HIV tests per 1,000 population. We assessed the association between the two rates using Spearman's rank correlation. We also calculated a rank difference between the two rates for each EHE jurisdiction to help identify jurisdictions with greater unfilled needs for HIV testing. RESULTS: Overall, CDC-funded HIV tests per 1,000 population were positively associated with estimated rate of undiagnosed HIV infection per 100,000 population (rho=0.55, p<0.001). EHE jurisdictions with the greatest magnitude of negative rank differences (i.e., higher undiagnosed HIV infection per 100,000 population and lower CDC-funded HIV tests per 1,000 population) were Prince George's County, MD; Mecklenburg County, NC; Hudson County, NJ; Bronx County, NY, and Hamilton County, OH. CONCLUSIONS: In general, CDC-funded HIV testing is being conducted in jurisdictions with the greatest needs. However, we also found large discrepancies between CDC-funded HIV testing and undiagnosed HIV infection rates for some jurisdictions. These jurisdictions may want to identify barriers to their HIV testing services and expand their programs to ensure that all PWH in their jurisdictions are diagnosed.

BACKGROUND: Rapid linkage to HIV medical care, ideally within seven days of a person's diagnosis with HIV infection, is a vital strategy of the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative in the United States. We analyzed HIV testing data to evaluate the prevalence of and factors associated with rapid linkage to HIV medical care. METHODS: We used HIV testing data reported by CDC-funded 60 state and local health departments and 29 community-based organizations during 2019-2020. Variables analyzed include rapid linkage to HIV medical care (within seven days of diagnosis), demographic/population characteristics, geographic region, test site type, and test year. Multivariable Poisson regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the characteristics associated with rapid linkage to HIV medical care. RESULTS: A total of 3,678,070 HIV tests were conducted, and 11,337 persons were newly diagnosed with HIV infection. Only 4,710 (41.5%) persons received rapid linkage to HIV medical care, which was more likely among men who have sex with men or persons who were diagnosed in Phase I EHE jurisdictions and less likely among persons diagnosed in STD clinics or the South region. CONCLUSIONS: Less than one-half of persons newly diagnosed with HIV infection in CDC-funded HIV testing programs were linked to HIV medical care within seven days of diagnosis. Rapid linkage to care varied significantly by population characteristics and setting. Identifying and removing potential individual, social, or structural barriers to rapid linkage to care can help improve HIV-related health equity and contribute to the national goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

HIV partner services (HIV PS) is an effective strategy for diagnosing HIV infection. Sex/needle-sharing partners of individuals diagnosed with HIV are notified about potential exposure and offered HIV testing and other services. We assessed the HIV PS contribution to HIV diagnoses in the United States and assessed priority areas for improvements. National HIV Monitoring and Evaluation Partner Services and case surveillance data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 2019 were used for this analysis. The percentage of all new diagnoses that HIV PS programs reported is described nationally and by state. Linkage to HIV medical care among newly diagnosed partners is described. Potential increases in diagnosing HIV infection are assessed by HIV PS step to identify priority areas for improvement. HIV PS contributed 1214 of 35,164 (3.5%) of all diagnoses nationally in 2019, and contributions ranged from 0% to 31.8% by state. Of partners tested with nonmissing data, 22.7% were newly diagnosed. An estimated 1692 new partner diagnoses were lost during HIV PS steps. Steps resulting in the highest losses included index patients not being interviewed, partners not being tested for HIV, and index patients not being located. Seventy-two percent of partners newly diagnosed with HIV were linked to HIV medical care. HIV PS is an effective strategy for diagnosing HIV, and a high percent of sex/needle-sharing partners was newly diagnosed with HIV. Expanded HIV PS in some states and targeted improvements in HIV PS steps can enhance the contribution of HIV PS toward achieving national goals. | eng

OBJECTIVES: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV. This study reports data on HIV testing program outcomes among MSM tested for HIV in non-healthcare settings in the United States. METHODS: We analyzed CDC's National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation data collected in 2019. Descriptive and multivariate robust Poisson regression analyses were conducted to summarize the patterns of HIV testing program outcomes (i.e., positivity, linkage to HIV medical care within 30 days of diagnosis, interview for partner services (PS), and PrEP awareness and referral) by demographic characteristics, HIV prevalence, and testing site type. RESULTS: A total of 123,251 HIV tests were conducted among MSM; of these, 1,773 (1.4%) were newly diagnosed with HIV. Among MSM newly diagnosed with HIV, 75% were linked to HIV medical care and 80% were interviewed for PS. Among MSM who tested HIV-negative, 63% were aware of PrEP and 47% of those who were eligible for PrEP were referred to PrEP providers. Referral or linkage to services varied by demographic characteristics or other factors. CONCLUSIONS: Linkage to HIV medical care and interview for PS among MSM newly diagnosed with HIV in non-healthcare settings were below national or funding program targets. The majority of MSM with risk factors for HIV infection were not referred to PrEP providers. Expanded efforts to address barriers to equitable access to services may help improve HIV-related outcomes among MSM and contribute to ending the HIV epidemic in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Clinicians increasingly serve youths from societal/cultural backgrounds different from their own. This raises questions about how to interpret what such youths report. Rescorla et al. (2019, European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 28, 1107) found that much more variance in 72,493 parents' ratings of their offspring's mental health problems was accounted for by individual differences than by societal or cultural differences. Although parents' reports are essential for clinical assessment of their offspring, they reflect parents' perceptions of the offspring. Consequently, clinical assessment also requires self-reports from the offspring themselves. To test effects of individual differences, society, and culture on youths' self-ratings of their problems and strengths, we analyzed Youth Self-Report (YSR) scores for 39,849 11-17 year olds in 38 societies. METHODS: Indigenous researchers obtained YSR self-ratings from population samples of youths in 38 societies representing 10 culture cluster identified in the Global Leadership and Organizational Behavioral Effectiveness study. Hierarchical linear modeling of scores on 17 problem scales and one strengths scale estimated the percent of variance accounted for by individual differences (including measurement error), society, and culture cluster. ANOVAs tested age and gender effects. RESULTS: Averaged across the 17 problem scales, individual differences accounted for 92.5% of variance, societal differences 6.0%, and cultural differences 1.5%. For strengths, individual differences accounted for 83.4% of variance, societal differences 10.1%, and cultural differences 6.5%. Age and gender had very small effects. CONCLUSIONS: Like parents' ratings, youths' self-ratings of problems were affected much more by individual differences than societal/cultural differences. Most variance in self-rated strengths also reflected individual differences, but societal/cultural effects were larger than for problems, suggesting greater influence of social desirability. The clinical significance of individual differences in youths' self-reports should thus not be minimized by societal/cultural differences, which-while important-can be taken into account with appropriate norms, as can gender and age differences.

OBJECTIVES: During 2015-2019, five local and state health department jurisdictions implemented Data to Care (D2C) programs supported by Project PrIDE (Pre-exposure prophylaxis, Implementation, Data to Care, and Evaluation) to improve linkage or reengagement in HIV medical care among persons with HIV (PWH) who had gaps in care, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender persons. We describe findings from the cross-jurisdiction evaluation of the project. METHODS: We conducted a qualitative analysis of the final progress reports submitted by PrIDE jurisdictions to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to identify key D2C activities implemented and challenges encountered. We also conducted descriptive analysis on aggregate quantitative data to summarize key D2C program outcomes. RESULTS: PrIDE jurisdictions implemented multiple activities to build their D2C capacity, identify PWH who were not in care or virally suppressed, provide linkage/reengagement services, and monitor outcomes. Overall, 11 463 PWH were selected for follow-up, 45% of whom were MSM or transgender persons. Investigations were completed for 8935 (77.9%) PWH. Only 2323 (26.0%) PWH were confirmed not in care or virally suppressed; 1194 (51.4%) were subsequently linked/reengaged in care; among those, 679 (56.9%) were virally suppressed at last test. PrIDE jurisdictions identified data-related (eg, incomplete or delayed laboratory results), program capacity (eg, insufficient staff), and social and structural (eg, unstable housing) challenges that affected their D2C implementation. CONCLUSIONS: PrIDE jurisdictions successfully enhanced their D2C capacity, reached priority populations who were not in care or virally suppressed, and improved their engagement in care and health outcomes. Data-related and non-data-related challenges limited the efficiency of D2C programs. Findings can help inform other D2C programs and contribute to national HIV prevention goals.

OBJECTIVE: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) Implementation, Data to Care, and Evaluation (PrIDE) was a demonstration project implemented by 12 state and local health departments during 2015-2019 to expand PrEP services for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender persons at risk for HIV infection. We describe findings from the cross-jurisdictional evaluation of the project. METHODS: We analyzed work plans, annual progress reports, and aggregate quantitative program data submitted by funded health departments (n = 12) to identify key activities implemented and summarize key project outcomes. RESULTS: PrIDE jurisdictions implemented multiple health equity-focused activities to expand PrEP services to priority populations, including building program capacity, conducting knowledge and awareness campaigns, providing PrEP support services, and addressing barriers to PrEP use. Overall, PrIDE jurisdictions identified 44 813 persons with PrEP indications. Of these, 74.8% (n = 33 500) were referred and 33.1% (n = 14 821) were linked to PrEP providers, and 25.3% (n = 11 356) were prescribed PrEP. Most persons prescribed PrEP were MSM or transgender persons (87.9%) and persons from racial and ethnic minority groups (65.6%). However, among persons with PrEP indications, non-Hispanic Black/African American persons (14.9% of 18 782) were less likely than non-Hispanic White persons (31.0% of 11 633) to be prescribed PrEP (z = -33.57; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: PrIDE jurisdictions successfully expanded PrEP services for MSM, transgender persons, and racial and ethnic minority groups by implementing health equity-focused activities that addressed barriers to PrEP services. However, PrEP prescription was generally low, with significant disparities by demographic characteristics. Additional targeted interventions are needed to expand PrEP services, achieve equity in PrEP use, and contribute to ending the HIV epidemic in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) partner services (PS) are an essential component of comprehensive HIV prevention and care. We examined factors associated with partner notification, HIV testing, and HIV positivity among partners of HIV diagnosed persons (index persons) contacted by CDC-funded state and local health departments. METHODS: We analyzed PS data submitted to CDC by 61 state and local health departments from 2013-2017. Using multivariate Poisson regression-adjusted for clustering effects among partners reported by a common index person-we assessed association between three outcomes of interest (partner notification, HIV testing, and HIV positivity) and the demographic characteristics, risk behaviors, geographic region, and service year of index persons and their partners. RESULTS: A total of 51,368 sexual and/or needle-sharing partners were matched with 33,524 index persons. Of notifiable partners, 97.2% were notified of their potential HIV exposure, 52.3% were tested for HIV. Among 21,842 notified and tested partners, 23.8% were newly diagnosed with an HIV infection. Partner notification, HIV testing, and HIV positivity were associated with both partner and index person characteristics (individually and interactively), geographic region, and year of service. CONCLUSIONS: PS programs provided through CDC-funded health departments are effective in both partner notification and identification of undiagnosed HIV infection among partners. However, HIV testing rates among notified partners remains low. Implementing strategies to address gaps in HIV testing can contribute towards ending the HIV epidemic in the United States.

Hispanic or Latino* (Hispanic) persons are disproportionately affected by HIV in the United States. In 2019, Hispanic persons accounted for 18% of the U.S. population, but for 29% of new diagnoses of HIV infection (1). The Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. (EHE) initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030 (2). Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), medication taken to prevent acquisition of HIV, is an effective strategy for preventing HIV infection.(†) To examine PrEP awareness and referral to providers among Hispanic persons, CDC analyzed 2019 National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation HIV testing data. Approximately one quarter (27%) of Hispanic persons tested for HIV at CDC-funded sites (n = 310,954) were aware of PrEP, and 22% of those who received a negative HIV test result and were eligible for referral (111,644) were referred to PrEP providers. PrEP awareness and referrals among Hispanic persons were lower compared with those among non-Hispanic White persons. Among Hispanic persons, significant differences were found in PrEP awareness and referrals by age, gender, race, population group, geographic region, and test setting. HIV testing programs can expand PrEP services for Hispanic persons by implementing culturally and linguistically appropriate strategies that routinize PrEP education and referral, collaborating with health care and other providers, and addressing social and structural barriers.

Over the past decade, CDC has been implementing a high-impact prevention (HIP) approach to HIV, directing funds towards activities with the greatest likelihood of reducing new infections and disparities. Corresponding to this shift, the Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (DHAP) began funding a series of multi-site demonstration projects to provide extra support and evaluative capacity to select health departments to initiate new HIP programming, with the intention of ascertaining and sharing lessons with other health departments. In this paper, we provide context for the PrEP, Implementation, Data2Care, Evaluation (PrIDE) evaluation by describing the evolution of evaluation goals and activities across three prior demonstration projects, highlighting four areas of change: 1) integrated evaluation and program implementation; 2) local program evaluation in addition to cross-site performance monitoring; 3) prescriptive allocation of resources to support local program evaluation; and 4) expansion beyond single site program evaluation to identify effective cross-site programmatic strategies. Together, these changes reflect our own learning about achieving the greatest contribution from multi-site projects and set the stage for unique aspects of program evaluation within PrIDE. We describe these features, concluding with lessons learned from this most recent approach to structuring and supporting evaluation within CDC DHAP's health department demonstration projects.

BACKGROUND: Transgender persons are at high risk for HIV infection. Testing is a key component of the national effort to end the HIV epidemic in the United States. SETTING: Sixty-one local and state health departments (HDs) and 150 community-based organizations (CBOs) funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to conduct HIV testing programs. METHODS: We analyzed HIV testing data submitted to CDC by funded HDs and CBOs during 2012-2017. Descriptive analysis examined patterns of HIV testing and key outcomes (diagnosis of HIV infection, linkage to HIV medical care, and interview for partner services) among transgender persons. Multivariate robust Poisson regression was used to assess associations between HIV testing outcomes and demographic characteristics, census region, and test setting. RESULTS: A total of 82,818 HIV tests were provided to transgender persons. Of these, 2,280 (2.8%) transgender persons were diagnosed with HIV infection; 1,556 (1.9%) received a new and 724 (0.9%) a previous diagnosis with HIV infection. The highest percentage of new HIV diagnosis was found among persons tested in correctional settings (4.6%), non-Hispanic Blacks (3.5%) and transgender women (2.4%).Among newly diagnosed persons, 85.0% were linked to HIV medical care ≤90 days after diagnosis and 63.5% were interviewed for partner services. CONCLUSIONS: HIV positivity was high, and the delivery of partner services was low, among transgender persons. HIV testing outcomes among transgender persons varied significantly by demographic characteristics and test setting. HIV prevention programs that are responsive to the needs of transgender persons may address gender-related disparities in HIV testing outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and early diagnosis is associated with effective disease management and reduction in HIV transmission among persons who inject drugs (PWID). We examined trends in HIV testing outcomes among PWID during 2012-2017. METHODS: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded HIV testing data submitted by 61 health departments and 150 directly-funded community-based organizations during 2012-2017 were analyzed. We calculated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) to assess trends for HIV testing and testing outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 19 739 857 CDC-funded HIV tests were conducted during 2012-2017. Of these, 529 349 (2.7%) were among PWID. The percentage of newly diagnosed HIV increased from .7% in 2012 to .8% in 2017 (EAPC, 4.15%). The percentage interviewed for partner services increased from 46.7% in 2012 to 66.3% in 2017 (EAPC, 1.81%). No significant change was identified in trends for linkage to HIV medical care ≤90 days after diagnosis (EAPC, 0.52%) or referral to HIV prevention services (EAPC, 0.98%). CONCLUSIONS: Human immunodeficiency virus testing data revealed an increasing trend in newly diagnosed HIV among PWID but not linkage to HIV medical care or referral to prevention services. Expanding efforts to increase HIV testing and enhance linkage to services can lead to reductions in HIV transmission and improved health outcomes.

Consistent and correct use of condoms can reduce the risk for sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Studies have reported that condomless sex among men who have sex with men (MSM) has steadily increased in recent years. We analyzed data reported by 51 health departments regarding 82 556 HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM 13 years or older and participated in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-funded behavioral risk-reduction intervention programs during 2012-2017. The percentages of condomless sex increased from 56.3% to 72.0% (estimated annual percent change [EAPC] = 7.1%) among HIV-positive MSM and from 46.0% to 70.5% (EAPC = 4.1%) among HIV-negative MSM. Continued increases in condomless sex might disrupt progress in ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Transmission risk associated with condomless sex can be reduced by ensuring that HIV-positive persons know their status early and are linked to care to achieve viral suppression and those at risk for acquiring HIV/AIDS can readily access preexposure prophylaxis.

Transgender women* in the United States are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection because of multiple factors, including stigma related to gender identity, unstable housing, limited employment options, and high-risk behaviors, such as sex work, unprotected receptive anal intercourse, and injection drug use, that tend to increase their vulnerability to becoming infected with HIV (1,2). In a recent meta-analysis of 88 U.S. studies conducted during 2006-2017, the mean estimated laboratory-confirmed prevalence of HIV infection among transgender women was 14.2%, and the mean self-reported prevalence estimate was 21.0% (3). The Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative calls for accelerating the implementation of evidence-based strategies in the right geographic areas targeted to the right persons to end the HIV epidemic in the United States (4). HIV partner services are effective strategies offered by public health workers to persons with a diagnosis of HIV infection (index persons) and their sex or needle-sharing partners (partners), who are notified of potential HIV exposure and offered HIV testing and related services. CDC analyzed HIV partner services data submitted by 61 health departments(dagger) during 2013-2017. Among 208,304 index persons, 1,727 (0.8%) were transgender women. Overall, 71.5% of index transgender women were interviewed for partner services, which was lower than that for all index persons combined (81.1%). Among 1,089 transgender women named as partners by index persons, 71.2% were notified of potential HIV exposure, which was lower than that for all partners combined (77.1%). Fewer than half (46.5%) of notified transgender women partners were tested for HIV, and approximately one in five (18.6%) of those who were tested received a new diagnosis of HIV infection, slightly higher than for all partners combined (17.6%). Additional efforts are needed to effectively implement partner services among transgender women and identify those whose infection with HIV is undiagnosed, provide timely prevention and care services, reduce HIV transmission, and contribute to ending the HIV epidemic.

Identifying persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection who are unaware of their infection status, linking them to HIV care, and reducing racial/ethnic disparities are important national HIV prevention goals (1). Blacks/African Americans (blacks)* are disproportionately affected by HIV infection in the United States. Although blacks represent 13% of the U.S. population (2), in 2017, 44% of diagnoses of HIV infection were in blacks, and the rate of new diagnoses in blacks (41.1 per 100,000 persons) was approximately eight times that of non-Hispanic whites (5.1) (3). HIV partner services are offered by health officials to persons with diagnosed HIV infection (index patients) and their sex- or needle-sharing partners, who are notified of their potential HIV exposure and offered HIV testing and related services (4). CDC analyzed 2016 data from the National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation system submitted by 59 health departments.(dagger) Among 49,266 index patients identified as potential candidates for partner services, 21,191 (43%) were black. The percentage of black index patients interviewed for partner services (76%) was higher than that for all index patients combined (73%). Among the 11,088 black partners named by index patients, 78% were notified of their potential HIV exposure. Fewer than half (47%) of those notified were tested for HIV infection. Among those tested, one in six (17%) received a new HIV diagnosis. The prevalence of newly diagnosed HIV infection was particularly high among black partners who were gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) (37%) and transgender persons (38%). Effective implementation of partner services is important to identify HIV infection, link patients to care or reengage them in care, and provide prevention services to reduce HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVE:: The Care and Prevention in the United States (CAPUS) Demonstration Project was a 4-year (2012-2016) cross-agency demonstration project that aimed to reduce HIV/AIDS-related morbidity and mortality among racial/ethnic minority groups in 8 states (Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia). Its goals were to increase the identification of undiagnosed HIV infections and optimize the linkage to, reengagement with, and retention in care and prevention services for people with HIV (PWH). We present descriptive findings to answer selected cross-site process and short-term outcome monitoring and evaluation questions. METHODS:: We answered a set of monitoring and evaluation questions by using data submitted by grantees. We used a descriptive qualitative method to identify key themes of activities implemented and summarized quantitative data to describe program outputs and outcomes. RESULTS:: Of 155 343 total HIV tests conducted by all grantees, 558 (0.36%) tests identified people with newly diagnosed HIV infection. Of 4952 PWH who were presumptively not in care, 1811 (36.6%) were confirmed as not in care through Data to Care programs. Navigation and other linkage, retention, and reengagement programs reached 10 382 people and linked to or reengaged with care 5425 of 7017 (77.3%) PWH who were never in care or who had dropped out of care. Programs offered capacity-building trainings to providers to improve cultural competency, developed social marketing and social media campaigns to destigmatize HIV testing and care, and expanded access to support services, such as transitional housing and vocational training. CONCLUSIONS:: CAPUS grantees substantially expanded their capacity to deliver HIV-related services and reach racial/ethnic minority groups at risk for or living with HIV infection. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of implementing novel and integrated programs that address social and structural barriers to HIV care and prevention.

OBJECTIVES:: The Care and Prevention in the United States Demonstration Project included implementation of a Data to Care strategy using surveillance and other data to (1) identify people with HIV infection in need of HIV medical care or other services and (2) facilitate linkages to those services to improve health outcomes. We present the experiences of 4 state health departments: Illinois, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Virginia. METHODS:: The 4 state health departments used multiple databases to generate listings of people with diagnosed HIV infection (PWH) who were presumed not to be in HIV medical care or who had difficulty maintaining viral suppression from October 1, 2013, through September 29, 2016. Each health department prioritized the listings (eg, by length of time not in care, by viral load), reviewed them for accuracy, and then disseminated the listings to staff members to link PWH to HIV care and services. RESULTS:: Of 16 391 PWH presumed not to be in HIV medical care, 9852 (60.1%) were selected for follow-up; of those, 4164 (42.3%) were contacted, and of those, 1479 (35.5%) were confirmed to be not in care. Of 794 (53.7%) PWH who accepted services, 694 (87.4%) were linked to HIV medical care. The Louisiana Department of Health also identified 1559 PWH as not virally suppressed, 764 (49.0%) of whom were eligible for follow-up. Of the 764 PWH who were eligible for follow-up, 434 (56.8%) were contacted, of whom 269 (62.0%) had treatment adherence issues. Of 153 PWH who received treatment adherence services, 104 (68.0%) showed substantial improvement in viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS:: The 4 health departments established procedures for using surveillance and other data to improve linkage to HIV medical care and health outcomes for PWH. To be effective, health departments had to enhance coordination among surveillance, care programs, and providers; develop mechanisms to share data; and address limitations in data systems and data quality.

Racial/ethnic minority groups, particularly African American and Hispanic people, have a disproportionate burden of HIV infection and poor health outcomes despite substantial federal investment to address HIV-related health disparities.1,2 In spring 2011, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy (OHAIDP) initiated the first of several cross-agency brainstorming discussions on a demonstration project to be funded through the Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund (SMAIF) that would address racial/ethnic disparities in HIV/AIDS morbidity and mortality. These discussions, which involved federal staff members from several HHS operating and staff divisions, were the foundation for a new initiative—the Care and Prevention in the United States (CAPUS) Demonstration Project (hereinafter, CAPUS).

Major advances have been made in reducing HIV-related morbidity and mortality since the first infections were reported in the United States more than 36 years ago.1,2 However, racial/ethnic minority populations are disproportionately affected.3,4 The Care and Prevention in the United States (CAPUS) Demonstration Project (hereinafter, CAPUS; 2012-2016) aimed to reduce HIV-related morbidity, mortality, and health disparities among these priority populations in 8 states: Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.5 State health departments collectively received $42.8 million through the US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund6 to expand and improve HIV testing capacity and optimize linkage to, retention in, and reengagement with care and prevention services for people with HIV (PWH).5 Eligibility for funding was based on the high HIV disease burden among racial/ethnic minority populations, the disproportionate rate of AIDS diagnoses and associated mortality, and the pervasive effect of social and structural determinants of health within a jurisdiction.

OBJECTIVE: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) partner services are an integral part of comprehensive HIV prevention programs. We examined the patterns of HIV testing and positivity among partners of HIV-diagnosed people who participated in partner services programs in CDC-funded state and local health departments. METHODS: We analyzed data on 21 484 partners submitted in 2013-2014 by 55 health departments. We conducted descriptive and multivariate analyses to examine patterns of HIV testing and positivity by demographic characteristics and geographic region. RESULTS: Of 21 484 partners, 16 275 (75.8%) were tested for HIV; 4503 of 12 886 (34.9%) partners with test results were identified as newly HIV-positive. Compared with partners aged 13-24, partners aged 35-44 were less likely to be tested for HIV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78-0.95) and more likely to be HIV-positive (aOR = 1.35; 95% CI, 1.20-1.52). Partners who were male (aOR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.81-0.97) and non-Hispanic black (aOR = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.63-0.74) were less likely to be tested but more likely to be HIV-positive (male aOR = 1.81; 95% CI, 1.64-2.01; non-Hispanic black aOR = 1.52; 95% CI, 1.38-1.66) than partners who were female and non-Hispanic white, respectively. Partners in the South were more likely than partners in the Midwest to be tested for HIV (aOR = 1.56; 95% CI, 1.35-1.80) and to be HIV-positive (aOR = 2.18; 95% CI, 1.81-2.65). CONCLUSIONS: Partner services programs implemented by CDC-funded health departments are successful in providing HIV testing services and identifying previously undiagnosed HIV infections among partners of HIV-diagnosed people. Demographic and regional differences suggest the need to tailor these programs to address unique needs of the target populations.

We thank Klein1 for discussing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing among older adults, whom we define for the purposes of routine HIV testing as persons ages 50–64 years. Citing the U.S. Preventive Services Taskforce (USPSTF) guidelines2, Klein suggests routine HIV testing is not warranted among older adults as their relatively low rates of HIV infection render it an inefficient use of resources. Neither those guidelines nor CDC’s 2006 HIV testing recommendations3 prescriptively defines what time periods constitute “routine” for healthcare visits or HIV tests; we4 use “the last 12 months” as a proxy for an annual primary care visit and opportunity to test. We respectfully disagree with Klein on several assertions, including that providers must document HIV prevalence prior to implementing routine HIV testing. The recommendations explicitly state the opposite: “Health-care providers should initiate screening unless prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection in their patients has been documented to be <0.1%. In the absence of existing data for HIV prevalence, health-care providers should initiate voluntary HIV screening until they establish that the diagnostic yield is <1 per 1,000 patients screened.3 (p.7)” This letter focuses on two of our concerns: Klein (1) underestimates the need for HIV testing among older adults and (2) does not consider issues of equity. The resulting conclusion about the appropriateness of HIV testing is biased downwards.

The 2015 National HIV/AIDS Strategy provides an updated plan to address health disparities in communities at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (1,2). Hispanics/Latinos* are disproportionately affected by HIV in the United States. In 2014, 23% of HIV diagnoses were among Hispanics/Latinos, who represented 16% of the U.S. population (3). To examine HIV testing services, CDC analyzed 2014 data from the National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation (NHM&E) system submitted by 60 CDC-funded health departmentsdagger and 151 community-based organizations. Among Hispanics/Latinos tested, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) had the highest percentage of HIV diagnoses (2%). MSM accounted for 19.8% of HIV test events conducted among Hispanics/Latinos and 63.8% of Hispanics/Latinos who received an HIV diagnosis in non-health care settings. section sign Approximately 60% of Hispanics/Latinos who received an HIV diagnosis were linked to HIV medical care within 90 days; this percentage was lower in the South than in other U.S. Census regions. HIV prevention programs that are focused on expanding routine HIV screening and targeting and improving linkage to medical care and other services (e.g., partner services) for Hispanics/Latinos can help identify undiagnosed HIV cases and reduce HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVE: This study examined temporal trends in HIV testing among U.S. older adults (50-64 years of age) before and after the release of CDC's routine HIV testing recommendations in 2006. METHODS: The sample (n=872,797; 51.4% female) comprised 2003-2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System respondents in the oldest categories to which the recommendations apply: 50-54 years (34.5%, n=301,519), 55-59 years (34.1%, n=297,865), and 60-64 years (31.3%, n=273,413). We calculated (1) four-year pooled prevalences of past-year HIV testing before and after 2006, when the recommendations were released; and (2) annual prevalences of HIV testing overall and by age category from 2003-2010. Using weighted, multivariable logistic regression analyses, we examined binary (pre- vs. post-recommendations) and annual changes in testing, controlling for covariates. We stratified the data by recent doctor visits, examined racial/ethnic differences, and tested for linear and quadratic temporal trends. RESULTS: Overall and within age categories, the pooled prevalence of past-year HIV testing decreased following release of the recommendations (p<0.001). The annual prevalence decreased monotonically from 2003 (5.5%) to 2006 (3.6%) (b=-0.16, p<0.001) and then increased immediately after release of the recommendations, but decreased to 3.7% after 2009 (b=0.01, p<0.001). By race/ethnicity, testing increased over time among non-Hispanic black people only. Annual prevalence also increased among respondents with recent doctor visits. CONCLUSION: CDC's HIV testing recommendations were associated with a reversal in the downward trend in past-year HIV testing among older adults; however, the gains were neither universal nor sustained over time.

OBJECTIVES: We examined HIV testing services, seropositivity, and the characteristics associated with newly identified, confirmed HIV-positive tests among transgender individuals. METHODS: We analyzed data (2009-2011) using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to examine the relationships between HIV positivity and sociodemographic and risk characteristics among male-to-female transgender individuals. RESULTS: Most of the testing was conducted in females (51.1%), followed by males (48.7%) and transgender individuals (0.17%). Tests in male-to-female transgender individuals had the highest, newly identified confirmed HIV positivity (2.7%), followed by males (0.9%), female-to-male transgender individuals (0.5%), and females (0.2%). The associated characteristics with an HIV-positive test among male-to-female transgender individuals included ages 20 to 29 and 40 to 49 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4, 5.6 and AOR = 2.8; 95% CI = 1.3, 5.9, respectively), African American (AOR = 4.6; 95% CI = 2.7, 7.9) or Hispanic/Latino (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI = 1.5, 4.5) race/ethnicity, and reporting sex without condom within the past year (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.3, 2.6), sex with an HIV-positive person (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI = 1.1, 2.0), or injection drug use (AOR = 2.0; 95% CI = 1.3, 3.0). CONCLUSIONS: High levels of HIV positivity among transgender individuals, particularly male-to-female transgender individuals, underscore the necessity for targeted HIV prevention services that are responsive to the needs of this population.

BACKGROUND: Although routine human immune deficiency virus (HIV) testing during health care visits is recommended for most adults, many older adults (i.e., ages 50-64 years) do not receive it. This study identified factors associated with HIV testing in the past 12 months (i.e., recent HIV testing) among US adults in the 3 categories of older adulthood (50-54, 55-59, and 60-64 years) for which routine HIV testing is recommended. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional analysis of data from US older adult respondents to the 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We calculated prevalence (proportions) of HIV testing by age category and race/ethnicity. Using multiple logistic regression, we identified predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with recent HIV testing within and across age categories, by race/ethnicity and controlling for covariates. RESULTS: HIV testing prevalence was low (<5%), varied by race/ethnicity, and decreased with age. Within and across age categories, the odds of testing were highest among blacks (odds ratio [OR], 3.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.82-4.25) and higher among Latinos (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.50-2.84) and the oldest and youngest categories of American Indians/Alaska Natives (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.11-5.55; OR, 2.98; 95% CI, 1.49-5.95) than among whites. Those reporting a recent doctor visit (OR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.92-2.74) or HIV risk behaviors (OR, 3.50; 95% CI, 2.67-4.59) had higher odds of HIV testing. CONCLUSION: Regardless of risk, the oldest older adults, whites, and older women may forego HIV testing. Doctor visits may facilitate HIV testing. Additional research is needed to understand why eligible older adults seen by providers may not be screened for HIV infection.

OBJECTIVES: We assessed if HIV testing and diagnoses increased during the week of National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) and if characteristics of people who were tested varied compared with control weeks. METHODS: We analyzed HIV testing data from the 2010 National HIV Prevention Program Monitoring and Evaluation system to compare NHTD week (June 24-30, 2010) with two control weeks (January 7-13, 2010, and August 12-18, 2010) for the number of HIV testing events and new HIV-positive diagnoses, by demographics and other HIV-related variables. Characteristics associated with testing during NHTD week compared with control weeks were identified using Chi-square analyses. RESULTS: In 2010, an average of 15,000 more testing events were conducted and 100 more new HIV-positive diagnoses were identified during NHTD week than during the control weeks (p<0.001). Compared with control weeks, people tested during NHTD week were significantly less likely to be aged 20-29 years and non-Hispanic white and significantly more likely to be (1) aged ≥50 years, (2) non-Hispanic black or African American, (3) men who have sex with men, (4) low-risk heterosexuals, (5) tested with a rapid HIV test, or (6) tested in a non-health-care setting. CONCLUSION: In 2010, CDC-funded HIV testing events and new HIV-positive diagnoses increased during NHTD week compared with control weeks. HIV testing programs increased the use of rapid tests and returned a high percentage of test results. NHTD campaigns reached populations disproportionately affected by HIV and further expanded testing to people traditionally less likely to be tested. Incorporating strategies used during NHTD in programs conducted throughout the year may assist in increasing HIV testing and the number of HIV-positive diagnoses.