Delivering HIV Positive Test Results

Delivering HIV test results is a critical step for providers in helping to identify individuals who may be unaware of their HIV infection or at risk for acquiring HIV. It also allows medical care providers to rapidly link those identified as living with HIV into treatment as well as interventions that will prevent transmission, and to provide HIV-negative patients with appropriate risk prevention counseling and interventions. And, it is essential for providers to be able to convey the information simply and clearly, support the patient’s response to the news, provide information about the benefits of medical care and offer referrals for any additional assistance that may be needed.