HIV Rapid Testing (Blending Team Product).

The NIDA Clinical Trials Network conducted the multisite “HIV Rapid Testing and Counseling” study (protocol CTN-0032) to examine the efficacy of on-site rapid testing and risk-reduction counseling in increasing the receipt of results and reducing HIV risk behaviors of patients in substance abuse treatment programs. Research showed that offering this testing in substance abuse treatment centers substantially increased receipt of HIV test results and identified persons who were unaware of their HIV infection. Testing may be implemented for less than $40 per rapid HIV test and is cost-effective. Substance use treatment patients are receptive to on-site testing and are more likely to get tested than if they are referred to another agency for testing.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration’s Addiction Technology Transfer Network have partnered to promote the dissemination of the results from drug abuse research. This collaboration (the blending of research and practice) has produced numerous research-based training workshops and products designed specifically for substance abuse treatment providers. The HIV Rapid Testing Blending Product can be found online at http://www.nattc.org/rapidtesting and includes: video interviews with researchers, treatment providers, and clients about the value of onsite rapid HIV testing; a fact sheet that provides details about the need for onsite testing and the outcomes of the CTN protocol; and a web guide that provides links to valuable testing and other implementation resources.

Related protocols: CTN-0032