HIV testing and HIV service delivery to populations at high risk attending sexually transmitted disease clinics in the United States, 2011-2013

Objectives. We evaluated HIV testing and service delivery in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics. Methods. We assessed HIV testing, HIV positivity, receipt of HIV test results, linkage tomedical care, and referral services from 61 health department jurisdictions from 2011 to 2013. Results. In 2013, 18.6% (621 010) of all CDC-funded HIV-testing events were conducted in STD clinics, and 0.8% were newly identified as HIV-positive. In addition, 27.3% of all newly identified HIV-positive persons and 30.1% of all newly identified HIV-positive men who have sex with men were identified in STD clinics. Linkage to care within any time frame was 63.8%, and linkage within 90 days was 55.3%. Although there was a decrease in first-time HIV testers in STD clinics from 2011 to 2013, identification of new positives increased. Conclusions. Although linkage to care and referral to partner services could be improved, STD clinics appear successful at serving populations disproportionately affected by HIV. These clinics may reach persons who may not otherwise seek HIV testing or medical services and provide an avenue for service provision to these populations.