Routine HIV testing in the emergency department: tough lessons in sustainability

Systematic Review: Strategies for Improving HIV Testing and Detection Rates in European Hospitals

Undiagnosed HIV infection is a prominent clinical issue throughout Europe that requires the continuous attention of all healthcare professionals and policymakers to prevent missed testing opportunities and late diagnosis. This systematic review aimed to evaluate interventions to increase HIV testing rates and case detection in European hospitals. Out of 4598 articles identified, 29 studies fulfilled the selection criteria. Most of the studies were conducted in single Western European capital cities, and only one study was from Eastern Europe. The main interventions investigated were test-all and indicator-condition-based testing strategies. Overall, the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV was well above 0.1%. The studied interventions increased the HIV testing rate and the case detection rate. The highest prevalence of undiagnosed HIV was found with the indicator-condition-driven testing strategy, whereas the test-all strategy had the most profound impact on the proportion of late diagnoses. Nevertheless, the HIV testing rates and case-finding varied considerably across studies. In conclusion, effective strategies to promote HIV testing in European hospitals are available, but relevant knowledge gaps regarding generalizability and sustainability remain. These gaps require the promotion of adherence to HIV testing guidelines, as well as additional larger studies representing all European regions.

Blood-borne virus testing in emergency departments - a systematic review of seroprevalence, feasibility, acceptability and linkage to care

BACKGROUND

Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emergency departments (EDs) offer a point of contact for groups at increased risk of BBVs who may be less likely to engage with primary care. We reviewed the literature to evaluate whether BBV testing in this setting might be a viable option to increase case finding and linkage to care.

METHODS

We searched PubMed database for English language articles published until June 2019 on BBV testing in EDs. Studies reporting seroprevalence surveys, feasibility, linkage to care, enablers and barriers to testing were included. Additional searches for grey literature were performed.

RESULTS

Eight-nine articles met inclusion criteria, of which 14 reported BBV seroprevalence surveys in EDs, 54 investigated feasibility and acceptability, and 36 investigated linkage to care. Most studies were HIV-focused and conducted in the USA. Seroprevalence rates were in the range 1.5-17% for HCV, 0.7-1.6% for HBV, and 0.8-13% for HIV. For studies that used an opt-in study design, testing uptake ranged from 2% to 98% and for opt-out it ranged from 16% to 91%. There was a wide range of yield: 13-100% of patients received their test result, 21-100% were linked to care, and 50-91% were retained in care. Compared with individuals diagnosed with HIV, linkage to and retention in care were lower for those diagnosed with hepatitis C. Predictors of linkage to care was associated with certain patient characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Universal opt-out BBV testing in EDs may be feasible and acceptable, but linkage to care needs to be improved by optimizing implementation. Further economic evaluations of hepatitis testing in EDs are needed.

Improving detection of undiagnosed HIV through routine screening in a central London emergency department

HIV is a global public health issue. Routine testing for HIV should be performed on all 16-59 years old attending emergency departments (EDs) in high-prevalence areas in the UK.In August 2020, Charing Cross Hospital ED, situated in an 'extremely high-prevalence' area, had no formal guidelines on HIV testing. We aimed to increase HIV testing in 16-59 years old attending our ED to 25% by August 2021 through a quality improvement project, based on the Methodology for Improvement Model, performing six Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles over a 12-month period.An initial ED staff survey revealed 55% (n=22/40) of respondents were unsure of national HIV testing guidelines. Barriers to good testing practice included: lack of clarity on protocols for consent and indication, cost and perceived stigmatisation of patient groups. Interventions were employed at regular intervals, including employment of an HIV nurse advocate, inclusion of HIV tests in a blood test careset during ED triage, and updated trust guidelines that reflect national guidelines.Overall, we did achieve our original 12 month aim, with an average testing rate of 28% of our target group between September 2020 and August 2021. Extending the project to January 2022 has resulted in continued improvements in monthly testing rates, reaching 44% in December 2021. Further analysis revealed interventions led to a statistically significant and sustained increase in monthly testing rates on seven occasions.Valuable lessons were learnt in sustaining improvements in a busy department, changing long-held beliefs regarding consent for testing, and education around HIV care in the UK. Project write-up was formatted using the Revised Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence (SQUIRE) template.

Changing HCW attitudes: a case study of normalizing HIV service delivery in emergency departments

Background

Delays in the implementation of evidence-based practices are significant and ubiquitous, compromising health outcomes. Resistance to change is a key factor in hindering adoption and integration of new evidence-based interventions. This study seeks to understand the impact of exposure to HIV testing within a research context on provider attitudes towards HIV counselling and testing (HCT) in emergency departments (ED).

Methods

This is a pre-and-post study design measuring the effect of a new ED-based HCT intervention, conducted by lay counsellors, on provider attitudes in Eastern Cape, South Africa. A validated, anonymized, 7-item survey was self-completed by routine care providers (physicians, nurses, and case managers). Questions were scored on a 5-point Likert scale with 5 consistently reflecting a positive attitude. Mean scores were calculated for each question and compared using a two-sample t-test to assess change in sample means for attitudes among providers surveyed before and after the intervention.

Results

A total of 132 surveys were completed across three EDs. Majority of respondents were female (70.5%), 20–29 years old (37.9%), of African race (81.1%), nurses (39.4%), and practicing medicine for 0–4 years (37.9%). Pre-intervention, providers displayed a positive attitude towards ‘the benefit of offering ED-based HCT to patients’ (4.33), ‘the ED offering HCT’ (3.53), ‘all ED patients receiving HCT’ (3.42), ‘concern about patient reaction to HCT’ (3.26), and ‘comfort with disclosing HCT results’ (3.21); and a mildly negative attitude towards ‘only high-risk ED patients receiving HCT’ (2.68), and ‘the burden of offering HCT in a clinical environment’ (2.80). Post-intervention, provider attitudes improved significantly towards ‘all ED patients receiving HCT’ (3.86, p < 0.05), ‘only high-risk ED patients receiving HCT’ (2.30, p < 0.05), ‘the burden of offering HCT in a clinical environment’ (3.21, p < 0.05), and ‘comfort with disclosing HCT results’ (3.81, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Controlled exposure to new practices with a structured implementation period can shift attitudes beginning a process of practice normalization. In our study, we observed improvements in provider attitudes regarding the benefits of HCT and the burden of offering HCT to all patients in the ED. Research activities may have a role in mitigating resistance to change and supporting intervention adoption.

Targeted HIV screening in the emergency department

Despite considerable improvement in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) knowledge and treatment in the last 3 decades, the overall number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) is still rising with up to one quarter being unaware of their HIV status. Early HIV diagnosis and treatment prolongs life, reduces transmission, improves quality of life, and is a cost-effective public health intervention. The emergency department (ED) sees a large number of patients from marginalized and traditionally underserved populations in whom HIV is known to be more prevalent and who may not attend traditional services because of either cultural reasons or because of a chaotic lifestyle. This article discusses the two main approaches to screening; 'Opt-out' screening offers testing routinely in all clinical settings, and 'Targeted' screening offers testing to individuals presenting with indicator conditions. There are many studies of 'Opt-out' ED HIV screening in urban areas of high-HIV prevalence. However, little is known about the effectiveness of 'targeted' HIV screening, especially in areas of low prevalence. This review discusses the background to HIV screening in the ED and reviews the evidence around 'targeted' HIV screening in adult EDs in different HIV prevalence settings, concluding that targeted HIV screening at the ED can be impactful, cost-effective, and well accepted in the ED population, but its long-term implementation requires extra funding and increased staffing resource limiting its application in low resource setting. Despite most evidence being from areas of high-HIV prevalence, targeted screening might also be appropriate in low-HIV prevalence areas.

The Role of Targeted HIV Screening in the Emergency Department: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to expand worldwide, and a significant proportion of infection is still undiagnosed. Recent studies have addressed the impact and feasibility of 'opt-out' HIV screening in Emergency Departments (EDs) in urban settings at high HIV prevalence, whereas little is known about the yield of implementing 'targeted' HIV testing, especially in low-prevalence areas.

OBJECTIVE

The present study undertakes a scoping review of research carried out on the implementation of targeted HIV screening of adult in EDs to determine the impact, feasibility and acceptability of HIV testing in different HIV prevalence settings.

DESIGN

Online databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE) were used to identify papers published between 2000 to 2020. A three-concept search was employed with HIV (HIV, Human immunodeficiency virus infection, HIV infections), targeted testing (Target, screening or testing) and emergency medicine (Emergency Service, emergency ward, A&E, accident and emergency or Emergency Department) (28^th February 2020). Only full-text articles written in English, French, Spanish or Italian and using impact and/or feasibility and/or acceptability of the program as primary or secondary outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

The search provided 416 articles. Of these, 12 met inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Most of the included studies were carried out in the United States (n=8; 67%) and in areas of high HIV prevalence (n=11; 92%). Three (20%) were randomized control studies. While the rate of newly diagnosed HIV cases varied widely (0.03-2.2%), likely due to methodological heterogeneity between studies, the linkage of new HIV diagnosis was often high (80-100%) and median CD4+ cell count was always greater than 200 cells per microliter. Targeted HIV screening was found to be cost-effective (out of 2 studies) and well accepted by participants (out 2 studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted HIV screening at the ED can be impactful, feasible and well accepted, but often requires extra funding and staff. Most previous work has focused on areas of high disease prevalence.

Testing for HIV infection in the emergency departments of 2 hospitals in the Southeastern United States

BACKGROUND

In 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended non-targeted, opt-out HIV screening in all healthcare settings, including emergency departments (EDs). Multiple HIV testing programs have been implemented in EDs across the United States with varying designs and testing platforms. We report findings from a free, non-targeted, rapid HIV testing program in 2 EDs in the Southeastern United States.

METHODS

From 2008 to 2012, adults ≥18 years of age were offered free rapid HIV testing using an oral swab test (OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 antibody test) in the EDs of a large academic medical center and an affiliated community hospital in Durham, North Carolina.

RESULTS

In total, 5443 ED patients were offered HIV testing. The overall acceptance rate was 66.9% (3639/5443). Younger persons were significantly more likely to accept testing (78.2% for 18-29 years old vs 67.1% for ≥30 years old; P < 0.001) as were Black participants (72.6% Black vs 66.5% White; P < 0.001). Acceptance rates improved significantly after opt-out oral consent replaced written consent (71.3% vs 63.1%; P < 0.001). Seven new HIV diagnoses were confirmed during the testing program, resulting in a seropositivity rate of 0.19% (7/3639). There were 8 false-positive rapid oral HIV tests (positive predictive value = 46.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the number of new HIV diagnoses was low, implementation of this rapid, non-targeted ED screening program was feasible with high acceptance rates, particularly after introducing the opt-out oral consent approach.

Seroprevalence of HCV, HBV and HIV in two inner-city London emergency departments

SUMMARY

In this paper we build on work investigating the feasibility of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing in emergency departments (EDs), estimating the prevalence of hepatitis B, C and HIV infections among persons attending two inner-London EDs, identifying factors associated with testing positive in an ED. We also undertook molecular characterisation to look at the diversity of the viruses circulating in these individuals, and the presence of clinically significant mutations which impact on treatment and control.Blood-borne virus (BBV) testing in non-traditional settings is feasible, with emergency departments (ED) potentially effective at reaching vulnerable and underserved populations. We investigated the feasibility of BBV testing within two inner-London EDs. Residual samples from biochemistry for adults (⩾18 years) attending The Royal Free London Hospital (RFLH) or the University College London Hospital (UCLH) ED between January and June 2015 were tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)Ag/Ab, anti-hepatitis C (HCV) and HBsAg. PCR and sequence analysis were conducted on reactive samples. Sero-prevalence among persons attending RFH and UCLH with residual samples (1287 and 1546), respectively, were 1.1% and 1.0% for HBsAg, 1.6% and 2.3% for anti-HCV, 0.9% and 1.6% for HCV RNA, and 1.3% and 2.2% for HIV. For RFH, HBsAg positivity was more likely among persons of black vs. white ethnicity (odds ratio 9.08; 95% confidence interval 2.72-30), with anti-HCV positivity less likely among females (0.15, 95% CI 0.04-0.50). For UCLH, HBsAg positivity was more likely among non-white ethnicity (13.34, 95% CI 2.20-80.86 (Asian); 8.03, 95% CI 1.12-57.61 (black); and 8.11, 95% CI 1.13-58.18 (other/mixed)). Anti-HCV positivity was more likely among 36-55 year olds vs. ⩾56 years (7.69, 95% CI 2.24-26.41), and less likely among females (0.24, 95% CI 0.09-0.65). Persons positive for HIV-markers were more likely to be of black vs. white ethnicity (4.51, 95% CI 1.63-12.45), and less likely to have one ED attendance (0.39, 95% CI 0.17-0.88), or female (0.12, 95% CI 0.04-0.42). These results indicate that BBV-testing in EDs is feasible, providing a basis for further studies to explore provider and patient acceptability, referral into care and cost-effectiveness.

HIV testing strategies employed in health care settings in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA): evidence from a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Despite the availability of HIV testing guidelines to facilitate prompt diagnosis, late HIV diagnosis remains high across Europe. The study synthesizes recent evidence on HIV testing strategies adopted in health care settings in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA).

METHODS

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed and systematic searches were run in five databases (2010-2017) to identify studies describing HIV testing interventions in health care settings in the EU/EEA. The grey literature was searched for unpublished studies (2014-2017). Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction and critical appraisal.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty intervention and/or feasibility studies on HIV testing in health care settings were identified. Interventions included testing provision (n = 94), campaigns (n = 14) and education and training for staff and patients (n = 20). HIV test coverage achieved through testing provision varied: 2.9-94% in primary care compared to 3.9-66% in emergency departments. HIV test positivity was lower in emergency departments (0-1.3%) and antenatal services (0-0.05%) than in other hospital departments (e.g. inpatients: 0-5.3%). Indicator condition testing programmes increased HIV test coverage from 3.9-72% before to 12-85% after their implementation, with most studies reporting a 10-20% increase. There were 51 feasibility and/or acceptability studies that demonstrated that HIV testing interventions were generally acceptable to patients and providers in health care settings (e.g. general practitioner testing acceptable: 77-93%).

CONCLUSIONS

This review has identified several strategies that could be adopted to achieve high HIV testing coverage across a variety of health care settings and populations in the EU/EEA. Very few studies compared the intervention under investigation to a baseline, but, where this was assessed, data suggested increases in testing.

Doubling Hepatitis C Virus Screening in Primary Care Using Advanced Electronic Health Record Tools-A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health burden, affecting over 4 million people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines recommend screening everyone born between 1945 and 1965, but screening rates remain low.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether bulk ordering and electronic messaging to patients improves guideline-based HCV screening rates.

DESIGN

A non-randomized controlled trial of 1024 adults from November 2016 to March 2017.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients due for HCV screening with at least one primary care office visit in one of three primary care clinics and enrolled in the healthcare system's tethered personal health record (tPHR).

INTERVENTIONS

Control patients received normal care for HCV screening, consisting of passive HCV reminders to providers during face-to-face visits and passive HCV screening notification through the patient's tPHR. Intervention patients received normal care and also had HCV antibody tests ordered for them and customized messages sent through their tPHR inviting them to go directly to the lab for HCV screening over a 12-week period.

MAIN MEASURES

Percentage/number of patients receiving HCV antibody tests during the intervention period. Percentage/number of intervention group patients receiving HCV screening with other blood work.

KEY RESULTS

In the intervention group, 33% (168 of 514) completed HCV testing, compared with 19% (97 of 510) of controls (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.1). Bulk lab ordering appeared to have a large impact while bulk messaging appeared to have a less significant role.

CONCLUSIONS

Leveraging population analytics and bulk ordering in an electronic health record with bulk messaging to a tPHR directly engages patients in blood screening tests and can significantly improve completion. This methodology has a broad range of applications including many recommended screening or disease-specific testing. This bulk ordering and direct-to-patient messaging approach improves patient screening while decreasing provider/staff work.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

MetroHealth IRB16-00776 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

HIV/HCV/HBV testing in the emergency department: a feasibility and seroprevalence study

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to to assess the feasibility of simultaneous testing for the blood-borne viruses (BBV), HIV, hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatitis B (HBV), in the Emergency Department (ED) and ascertain the seroprevalence for these three viruses in this setting.

METHODS

A pilot BBV testing program was undertaken as part of routine clinical care in the ED. All ED attendees aged between 16 and 65 years old who were able to consent were tested over a 55 week period on an opt out basis. Patients with positive test results were linked to clinical services. Interventions aimed at improving testing rates were implemented and evaluated by quality improvement (QI) methodology.

RESULTS

Of 25,520 age-eligible ED attendees, 6108 (24%) underwent BBV testing; an additional 1160 (4.5%) underwent a standalone HIV test (total of 7268 (28%) individuals).There were 83/7268 (1.1%) non-negative (ie reactive or equivocal) results for HIV and 103/6108 (1.7%) and 32/6108 (0.52%) for anti-HCV IgG and HBsAg, respectively. Of these, 12 (0.17%), 16 (0.26%) and 8 (0.13%) were new reactive tests for HIV, HCV and HBV, respectively, which were able to be confirmed on a second test. Specific QI interventions led to temporary increases in testing rates.

CONCLUSIONS

An opt out BBV testing program in the ED is feasible and effective at finding new cases. However, the testing rate was low at 24%. Although QI interventions led to some improvement in testing rates, further studies are required to identify ways to achieve sustained increases in testing in this setting.

Self-sampling kits to increase HIV testing among black Africans in the UK: the HAUS mixed-methods study

BACKGROUND

Timely diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enables access to antiretroviral treatment, which reduces mortality, morbidity and further transmission in people living with HIV. In the UK, late diagnosis among black African people persists. Novel methods to enhance HIV testing in this population are needed.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a self-sampling kit (SSK) intervention to increase HIV testing among black Africans, using existing community and health-care settings (stage 1) and to assess the feasibility for a Phase III evaluation (stage 2).

DESIGN

A two-stage, mixed-methods design. Stage 1 involved a systematic literature review, focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders and black Africans. Data obtained provided the theoretical base for intervention development and operationalisation. Stage 2 was a prospective, non-randomised study of a provider-initiated, HIV SSK distribution intervention targeted at black Africans. The intervention was assessed for cost-effectiveness. A process evaluation explored feasibility, acceptability and fidelity.

SETTING

Twelve general practices and three community settings in London.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

HIV SSK return rate.

RESULTS

Stage 1 - the systematic review revealed support for HIV SSKs, but with scant evidence on their use and clinical effectiveness among black Africans. Although the qualitative findings supported SSK distribution in settings already used by black Africans, concerns were raised about the complexity of the SSK and the acceptability of targeting. These findings were used to develop a theoretically informed intervention. Stage 2 - of the 349 eligible people approached, 125 (35.8%) agreed to participate. Data from 119 were included in the analysis; 54.5% (65/119) of those who took a kit returned a sample; 83.1% of tests returned were HIV negative; and 16.9% were not processed, because of insufficient samples. Process evaluation showed the time pressures of the research process to be a significant barrier to feasibility. Other major barriers were difficulties with the SSK itself and ethnic targeting in general practice settings. The convenience and privacy associated with the SSK were described as beneficial aspects, and those who used the kit mostly found the intervention to be acceptable. Research governance delays prevented implementation in Glasgow.

LIMITATIONS

Owing to the study failing to recruit adequate numbers (the intended sample was 1200 participants), we were unable to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of SSKs in increasing HIV testing in black African people. No samples were reactive, so we were unable to assess pathways to confirmatory testing and linkage to care.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that, although aspects of the intervention were acceptable, ethnic targeting and the SSK itself were problematic, and scale-up of the intervention to a Phase III trial was not feasible. The preliminary economic model suggests that, for the acceptance rate and test return seen in the trial, the SSK is potentially a cost-effective way to identify new infections of HIV.

FUTURE WORK

Sexual and public health services are increasingly utilising self-sampling technologies. However, alternative, user-friendly SSKs that meet user and provider preferences and UK regulatory requirements are needed, and additional research is required to understand clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for black African communities.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42014010698 and Integrated Research Application System project identification 184223.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme and the BHA for Equality in Health and Social Care.

Routine HIV testing program in the University Infectious Diseases Centre in Lithuania: a four-year analysis

BACKGROUND

HIV transmission remains a major concern in Eastern Europe, and too many people are diagnosed late. Expanded testing strategies and early and appropriate access to care are required. Infectious disease departments might be targets for expanded HIV testing owing to the intense passage of key patient populations that carry indicators of HIV disease. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of a fully integrated, opt-out routine, rapid HIV testing program.

METHODS

A retrospective four-year study of a screening program was conducted from 2010 through 2014. The program was divided into two periods: from 2010 to 2012 (pilot study) and from 2013 to 2014. The pilot study consisted of routine HIV testing of patients aged 18-55 that were hospitalized in one department. In the second period, all inpatients aged 18-65 were eligible. Targeted testing was conducted in the other inpatient department during the pilot study and the outpatient department during both periods.

RESULTS

During the pilot study, 2203 patients were hospitalized, 1314 (59.6%) were eligible, 954 (72.6%) were tested, and 3 (0.31%) were newly diagnosed HIV-positive. In the second period, 4911 patients were hospitalized, 3727 (75.9%) were eligible, 3303 (88.6%) were tested, and 7 (0.21%) were HIV-positive. In total, 2800 targeted tests were performed, and 4 (0.14%) patients tested positive with newly discovered HIV. All 14 newly diagnosed patients were provided with care. Comparing cumulative groups of routine and targeted testing, the HIV prevalence was 0.23% vs. 0.14% (p = 0.40) and was above the reported cost-effectiveness threshold of 0.1% (p = 0.012). A lower proportion of advanced disease and a higher proportion of heterosexually transmitted infection were found in the routine testing group.

CONCLUSION

Routine HIV testing in admissions of infectious diseases is acceptable, feasible, sustainable and clinically effective. Compared to targeted testing, routine testing helped to discover more patients in earlier stages and those with heterosexually transmitted HIV infection.

Non-targeted HIV testing in the emergency department: not just how but where

INTRODUCTION

The emergency department (ED) has the potential to enhance early HIV diagnosis through HIV testing programs. How these are implemented is a subject of debate. Areas covered: We describe the main HIV testing approaches: diagnostic testing, targeted screening, and non-targeted screening, and review ED-based non-targeted HIV screening studies conducted after 2006 among ≥5000 patients. As well as examining how testing is offered, we focus on where it is offered, through the patient's journey from registration, via triage and the waiting room, to the bedside. Barriers to the testing offer, acceptance and performance were examined at each location. While testing offer rates were higher at registration and triage, compared to the waiting room and bedside, this was sometimes at the expense of testing acceptance and performance. Variables affecting testing rates included type of consent, employment of external staff and type of testing: fourth generation serological testing versus rapid testing. Expert commentary: These large studies shed light on the importance of where as well as how HIV testing is performed, and the ways in which the 'where' can influence non-targeted screening yields. This perspective enables testing approaches to be tailored to specific ED settings in order to maximize testing rates.

Effect of national HIV testing recommendations and local interventions on HIV testing practices in a Swiss university hospital: a retrospective analysis between 2012 and 2015

OBJECTIVES

Despite HIV testing recommendations published by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) since 2007, many individuals living with HIV are diagnosed late in Switzerland. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the 2013 FOPH HIV testing recommendations on HIV testing rates.

SETTING

Ten clinical services at Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients attending between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2015.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis using two existing hospital databases. HIV testing rates calculated as the percentage of tests performed (from the Immunology Service database) per number of patients seen (from the central hospital database).

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was testing rate change following the 2013 FOPH testing recommendations, comparing testing rates 2 years before and 2 years after their publication. Secondary outcomes were demographic factors of patients tested or not tested for HIV.

RESULTS

147 884 patients were seen during the study period of whom 9653 (6.5%) were tested for HIV, with 34 new HIV diagnoses. Mean testing rate increased from 5.6% to 7.8% after the recommendations (p=0.001). Testing rate increases were most marked in services involved in clinical trials on HIV testing, whose staff had attended training seminars on testing indications and practice. Testing rates were lower among older (aged >50 years), female and Swiss patients compared with younger, male and non-Swiss patients, both globally (p=0.001) and in specific clinical services.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple two-database tool demonstrates clinical services in which HIV testing practice can be optimised. Improved testing rates in services involved in clinical trials on testing suggest that local engagement complements the effect of national recommendations. While, overall, HIV testing rates increased significantly over time, testing rates were lower among patients with similar demographic profiles to individuals diagnosed late in Switzerland.

Implementing emergency department-based HIV testing in a low-resource setting: The value of a structured feasibility assessment tool

Introduction

HIV is a worldwide health problem with continuing high rates of new infections in many parts of the world. This lack of progress in decreasing overall incidence rates has sparked innovative HIV testing strategies, including expansion of testing into the emergency department (ED) setting. Emergency departments have been shown to be high-yield testing venues in the United States and other developed world settings. The feasibility of expanding public health HIV services in the ED in limited-resource countries is unclear.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional feasibility assessment of a convenience sample of four hospitals in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. We administered three adapted interview tools from a previously field-tested survey instrument at each facility (total of 10 interviews) to gather an overview of the health facility, their HIV counselling and testing services, and their laboratory services.

Results

All of the health facilities had access to basic commodities such as water and electricity. Many had severe human resource limitations and provided care to wide population catchment areas. In addition, there was little integration of HIV testing into current daily ED operations. Hospital staff identified numerous barriers to future ED testing efforts.

Conclusions

Although control of the HIV epidemic requires innovative testing strategies and treatment, specific assessments are warranted on how to incorporate routine HIV testing into an acute care facility like the ED, which typically has many competing priorities. The use of a prospective structured tool incorporating both barriers and benefits can provide valuable field-tested guidance for increased programme planning for HIV testing.

Hospital-based routine HIV testing in high-income countries: a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVES

To produce a summary of the published evidence of the barriers and facilitators for hospital-based routine HIV testing in high-income countries.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for studies, which described the offer of HIV testing to adults attending emergency departments (EDs) and acute medical units (AMUs) in the UK and US, published between 2006 and 2015. Other high-income countries were not included, as their guidelines do not recommend routine testing for HIV. The main outcomes of interest were HIV testing uptake, HIV testing coverage, factors facilitating HIV screening and barriers to HIV testing. Fourteen studies met the pre-defined inclusion criteria and critically appraised using mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT).

RESULTS

HIV testing coverage ranged from 9.7% to 38.3% and 18.7% to 26% while uptake levels were high (70.1-84% and 53-75.4%) in the UK and US, respectively. Operational barriers such as lack of time, the need for training and concerns about giving results and follow-up of HIV positive results, were reported. Patient-specific factors including female sex, old age and low risk perception correlated with refusal of HIV testing. Factors that facilitated the offer of HIV testing were venous sampling (vs. point-of-care tests), commitment of medical staff to HIV testing policy and support from local HIV specialist providers.

CONCLUSIONS

There are several barriers to routine HIV testing in EDs and AMUs. Many of these stem from staff fears about offering HIV testing due to the perceived lack of knowledge about HIV. Our systematic review highlights areas which can be targeted to increase coverage of routine HIV testing.

Targeted HIV Screening in Eight Emergency Departments: The DICI-VIH Cluster-Randomized Two-Period Crossover Trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

This study compares the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of nurse-driven targeted HIV screening alongside physician-directed diagnostic testing (intervention strategy) with diagnostic testing alone (control strategy) in 8 emergency departments.

METHODS

In this cluster-randomized, 2-period, crossover trial, 18- to 64-year-old patients presenting for reasons other than potential exposure to HIV were included. The strategy applied first was randomly assigned. During both periods, diagnostic testing was prescribed by physicians following usual care. During the intervention periods, patients were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire. According to their answers, the triage nurse suggested performing a rapid test to patients belonging to a high-risk group. The primary outcome was the proportion of new diagnoses among included patients, which further refers to effectiveness. A secondary outcome was the intervention's incremental cost (health care system perspective) per additional diagnosis.

RESULTS

During the intervention periods, 74,161 patients were included, 16,468 completed the questionnaire, 4,341 belonged to high-risk groups, and 2,818 were tested by nurses, yielding 13 new diagnoses. Combined with 9 diagnoses confirmed through 97 diagnostic tests, 22 new diagnoses were established. During the control periods, 74,166 patients were included, 92 were tested, and 6 received a new diagnosis. The proportion of new diagnoses among included patients was higher during the intervention than in the control periods (3.0 per 10,000 versus 0.8 per 10,000; difference 2.2 per 10,000, 95% CI 1.3 to 3.6; relative risk 3.7, 95% CI 1.4 to 9.8). The incremental cost was €1,324 per additional new diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The combined strategy of targeted screening and diagnostic testing was effective.

Identifying Areas for Improvement in the HIV Screening Process of a High-Prevalence Emergency Department

Since 1993, the Centers for Disease Control recommendations for HIV testing were extended to include persons obtaining care in the emergency department (ED). Situated in Newark, New Jersey, the University Hospital (UH) ED serves a community with a greater than 2% HIV prevalence, and a recent study showed a UH ED HIV seroprevalence of 6.5%, of which 33% were unknown diagnoses. Electronic records for patients seen in the UH ED from October 1st, 2014, to February 28th, 2015, were obtained. Information was collected on demographics, ED diagnosis, triage time, and HIV testing. Random sampling of 500 patients was performed to identify those eligible for screening. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done to assess screening characteristics. Only 9% (8.8-9.3%) of patients eligible for screening were screened in the ED. Sixteen percent (15.7-16.6%) of those in the age group18-25 and 12% (11.6-12.3%) of those in the age group 26-35 were screened, whereas 8% (7.8-8.2%) of those in the age group 35-45 were screened. 19.6% (19-20.1%) of eligible patients in fast track were screened versus 1.7% (1.6-1.8%) in the main ED. Eighty-five percent of patients screened were triaged between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. with 90% of all screening tests done by the HIV counseling, testing, and referral services. Due to the high prevalence of HIV, urban EDs play an integral public health role in the early identification and linkage to care of patients with HIV. By evaluating our current screening process, we identified opportunities to improve our screening process and reduce missed opportunities for diagnosis.

The late-presenting HIV-infected patient 30 years after the introduction of HIV testing: spectrum of opportunistic diseases and missed opportunities for early diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics of HIV-infected late presenters, opportunistic diseases at diagnosis and missed opportunities to diagnose HIV infection earlier.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study, we reviewed the medical records of all adults with newly diagnosed HIV infection admitted to the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Vivantes Auguste-Viktoria Hospital, Berlin, Germany.

RESULTS

In the 5-year period from 2009 to 2013, 270 late presenters were identified. The most common AIDS-defining conditions were oesophageal candidiasis (n = 136; 51%), wasting syndrome (n = 106; 40%) and pneumocystis pneumonia (n = 91; 34%). Fifty-five patients (21%) had presented with at least one HIV indicator condition on prior contact with health care services without being offered testing for HIV. Female patients and heterosexual men [not men who have sex with men ('non-MSM')] had a significantly higher chance of being among patients previously presenting with indicator conditions and not being tested [odds ratio (OR) 4.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2-10.0; P < 0.001; and OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2-5.1; P < 0.01, respectively]. The most commonly missed indicator conditions were leucocytopenia (n = 13; 24%), thrombocytopenia (n = 12; 22%), oral candidiasis (n = 9; 16%), unexplained weight loss (n = 7; 13%), herpes zoster (n = 5; 9%) and cervical dysplasia/cancer (n = 4; 20% of women). The median time between presentation with an indicator condition and the diagnosis of HIV infection was 158.5 days [interquartile range (IQR) 40-572 days]. Patients with oral candidiasis and unexplained weight loss had the shortest time between the "missed opportunity" and the diagnosis of HIV infection. Fifty-five hospital admissions with a total cost of over EUR 500 000 and - most importantly - six in-hospital deaths might have been prevented if HIV testing had been performed in patients with documented indicator conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Indicator conditions are still missed by clinicians. Women and 'non-MSM' are at highest risk of presenting with an indicator condition but not being tested for HIV infection.

Are there differences in disease progression and mortality among male and female HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy? A meta-analysis of observational cohorts

Studies examining the sex differences in morbidity and mortality among HIV/AIDS patients have yielded inconsistent results. We conducted a meta-analysis of sex differences in disease progression and mortality among HIV/AIDS patients. Medical literature databases from inception to August 2014 were searched for published observational studies assessing sex differences in immunologic and virologic response, disease progression and mortality among HIV-infected patients. Random effects meta-analyses of 115 eligible studies were conducted to obtain pooled estimates of outcomes and heterogeneity was explored in sub-group analyses. Pooled estimates showed an increased risk of progression to AIDS (relative risk [RR]=1.11,95% CI=1.02-1.21) and all-cause mortality (RR=1.23, 95% CI=1.17-1.29) among males compared to females. All-cause mortality differed by sex only in low and middle income countries. The risk of AIDS-related mortality (RR=1.03, 95% CI=0.82-1.30), immunologic failure (RR=1.19,95% CI: 0.97-1.47), virologic suppression (RR=0.98, 95% CI=0.84-1.14), virologic failure (RR=1.26, 95% CI=0.99-1.61) and the change in CD4 cell count (Weighted mean difference [WMD] = -5.15, 95% CI= -13.57 to 3.28) did not differ by sex. These findings were modified by disease severity, adherence and use of highly active antiretroviral therapy. We conclude that HIV-related disease progression and survival outcomes are poorer in males.

The impact of nurse-driven targeted HIV screening in 8 emergency departments: study protocol for the DICI-VIH cluster-randomized two-period crossover trial

BACKGROUND

In 2010, to reduce late HIV diagnosis, the French national health agency endorsed non-targeted HIV screening in health care settings. Despite these recommendations, non-targeted screening has not been implemented and only physician-directed diagnostic testing is currently performed. A survey conducted in 2010 in 29 French Emergency Departments (EDs) showed that non-targeted nurse-driven screening was feasible though only a few new HIV diagnoses were identified, predominantly among high-risk groups. A strategy targeting high-risk groups combined with current practice could be shown to be feasible, more efficient and cost-effective than current practice alone.

METHODS/DESIGN

DICI-VIH (acronym for nurse-driven targeted HIV screening) is a multicentre, cluster-randomized, two-period crossover trial. The primary objective is to compare the effectiveness of 2 strategies for diagnosing HIV among adult patients visiting EDs: nurse-driven targeted HIV screening combined with current practice (physician-directed diagnostic testing) versus current practice alone. Main secondary objectives are to compare access to specialist consultation and how early HIV diagnosis occurs in the course of the disease between the 2 groups, and to evaluate the implementation, acceptability and cost-effectiveness of nurse-driven targeted screening. The 2 strategies take place during 2 randomly assigned periods in 8 EDs of metropolitan Paris, where 42 % of France's new HIV patients are diagnosed every year. All patients aged 18 to 64, not presenting secondary to HIV exposure are included. During the intervention period, patients are invited to fill a 7-item questionnaire (country of birth, sexual partners and injection drug use) in order to select individuals who are offered a rapid test. If the rapid test is reactive, a follow-up visit with an infectious disease specialist is scheduled within 72 h. Assuming an 80 % statistical power and a 5 % type 1 error, with 1.04 and 3.38 new diagnoses per 10,000 patients in the control and targeted groups respectively, a sample size of 140,000 patients was estimated corresponding to 8,750 patients per ED and per period. Inclusions started in June 2014. Results are expected by mid-2016.

DISCUSSION

The DICI-VIH study is the first large randomized controlled trial designed to assess nurse-driven targeted HIV screening. This study can provide valuable information on HIV screening in health care settings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02127424 (29 April 2014).

Routine HIV testing in the Emergency Department: feasible and acceptable?

Routine HIV testing in non-specialist settings has the potential to significantly reduce late diagnosis and delay in treatment. The objective was to determine the feasibility and acceptability of HIV testing in an Emergency Department (ED) at a busy London teaching hospital. We conducted an observational cross sectional study between March-May 2012 where patients aged between 18-65 years attending St George's ED having serological tests were offered HIV testing by ED clinical staff. Patients were given an information leaflet on HIV, including how to obtain results. Data detailing whether the test was offered (feasibility) and whether the patient consented to the test (acceptability) were documented. Information regarding reasons for not offering HIV testing and reasons why the test was declined was also recorded. During the study period, 24,171 patients aged 18-65 were seen in the ED. Data were collected from 5657 patients. The mean age was 38 years, 57% were female and 27% identified themselves as white. 48% were offered HIV testing, of which 65% accepted. Incapacity to consent to testing was cited by clinicians as the commonest reason for not offering an HIV test (76%). 'Recent HIV test' was the commonest reason for declining a test (38%). One new HIV diagnosis was made. Our experience demonstrates that routine HIV testing in the ED is feasible and acceptable. However, to make HIV testing effective and part of routine clinical care, considerable clinical leadership, staff training and additional resources are required.

Benefits of a routine opt-out HIV testing and linkage to care program for previously diagnosed patients in publicly funded emergency departments in Houston, TX

BACKGROUND

The Routine Universal Screening for HIV program provides opt-out HIV testing and linkage to care for emergency department (ED) patients in Harris Health System, Houston, TX. Seventy-five percent of patients testing positive in this program have been previously diagnosed. Whether linkage to care is increased among these patients is unknown.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of persons tested for HIV in the ED between 2008 and 2012 but had a previously documented positive HIV test ≥1 year prior. Outcomes were engagement in care (≥1 HIV outpatient visits in 6 months), retention in care (≥2 HIV outpatient visits in 12 months, at least 3 months apart), and virologic suppression (<200 copies/mL in 12 months) compared before and after the ED visit. Analysis was conducted using McNemar test and multivariate conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 202,767 HIV tests identified 2068 previously diagnosed patients. The mean age was 43 years with 65% male and 87% racial and ethnic minorities. Engagement in care increased from 41.3% previsit to 58.8% postvisit (P < 0.001). Retention in care increased from 32.6% previsit to 47.1% postvisit (P < 0.001). Virologic suppression increased from 22.8% previsit to 34.0% postvisit (P < 0.001). Analyses revealed that engagement in care after visit improved most among younger participants (ages 16-24 years), retention improved across all groups, and virologic suppression improved most among participants aged 25-34 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine opt-out HIV testing in an ED paired with standardized service linkage improves engagement, retention, and virologic suppression in previously diagnosed patients.

Update on HIV in Western Europe

HIV infection in Western Europe is mainly concentrated among men who have sex with men, heterosexuals who acquired HIV from sub-Saharan African countries, and in people who inject drugs. The rate of newly diagnosed cases of HIV has remained roughly stable since 2004 whereas the number of people living with HIV has slowly increased due to new infections and the success of antiretroviral therapy in prolonging life. An ageing population is gradually emerging that will require additional care. There are large differences across countries in HIV testing rates, proportions of people who present to care with low CD4+ cell counts, accessibility to treatment and care, and rates of retention once in care. Improved collection of HIV surveillance data will benefit countries and help to understand their epidemic better. However, social inequalities experienced by people with HIV still remain in some regions and urgently need to be addressed.