Integrating HIV voluntary counselling and testing services into reproductive health settings

This guide, produced by the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), provides information on how to integrate voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) for HIV/AIDS into sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programmes. Benefits of integration include increased access to services for people wishing to know their HIV status; opportunities for providing SRH care to groups such as young people and men who might not otherwise access such services; and the potential for saving costs due to similarities in infrastructure and core skills between VCT and SRH programmes. Challenges are also identified, including the perception that service quality has suffered because of integration; the stigma against HIV testing; and the possible strain on financial and human resources.

An outline of the assessment process is provided, followed by coverage of planning and implementation. Key stages include identifying appropriate sites; involving the local community and analysing their needs; selecting which parts of VCT to integrate to ensure community acceptance; identifying and training providers; adapting existing facilities; and setting up ongoing care and support services for those testing positive. Guidance on monitoring and evaluation is included; it is recommended that this is a continuous process and that providers learn from the experiences of others involved in HIV prevention and care.

Summary written in collaboration with BRIDGE and Siyanda