CAHSS Faculty Articles

HIV Testing and Engagement in Care Among Highly Vulnerable Female Sex Workers: Implications for Treatment as Prevention Models

ORCID ID

0000-0003-4027-7840, 0000-0002-5001-7391

ResearcherID

K-3072-2014, H-3010-2014

Publication Title

Journal of Health Care for the Poor & Underserved

ISSN

1049-2089

Publication Date

8-2014

Abstract

Background: Although emerging Treatment as Prevention models can be effective in reducing HIV incidence among high-risk populations, many HIV infected individuals remain undiagnosed or fail to engage in HIV care.

Methods: This study examined the factors associated with HIV testing and care among a population of substance using female sex workers.

Results: Recent HIV testing was associated with higher education level, having a regular health care provider or clinic, recent crack use, and higher sexual risk behaviors; HIV treatment utilization was associated with higher levels of social support, having a regular health care provider or clinic, housing stability and insurance coverage. Qualitative data revealed HIV-related stigma, denial, social isolation, and substance use as barriers to HIV testing and treatment; social support and accessibility of services were key enablers.

Conclusions: Improving HIV testing and linkage to treatment among female sex workers will require structural initiatives to reduce stigma and increase service seeking support.

DOI

10.1353/hpu.2014.0113

Volume

25

Issue

3

First Page

1360

Last Page

1378

Link to Full Text
Peer Reviewed

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