African Journal of Public Health and Health Systems | 26 December 2015
A Scoping Review of Workplace-Based HIV Self-Testing and Linkage Interventions for Long-Distance Truck Drivers on Uganda's Northern Corridor: Frequency of Testing and Programme Implications
D, a, v, i, d, M, u, g, i, s, h, a, ,, N, a, k, a, t, o, K, i, g, o, z, i, ,, P, a, t, i, e, n, c, e, A, u, m, a, ,, J, u, l, i, u, s, B, y, a, r, u, h, a, n, g, a
Abstract
Long-distance truck drivers on Uganda’s Northern Corridor are a key population with heightened HIV vulnerability, largely due to high mobility and prolonged periods away from home. Workplace-based interventions, including HIV self-testing (HIVST), have been implemented to improve testing frequency and linkage to care, but their scope and outcomes require systematic mapping. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesise existing evidence on workplace-based HIV self-testing and linkage interventions for this population. It specifically examined their effect on the frequency of HIV testing and identified implications for programme design. The review followed a scoping review methodology based on the Arksey and O’Malley framework. A systematic search of peer-reviewed and grey literature was conducted. Included studies and reports focused on workplace-based HIVST interventions for truck drivers operating on the Northern Corridor in Uganda. Data were charted and analysed thematically. The review identified a limited but consistent body of evidence. A prominent finding was that integrated, workplace-friendly HIVST models increased testing frequency more than standard facility-based testing. One programme reported a near threefold increase in the proportion of drivers testing every six months. Evidence underscored the importance of employer engagement and on-site counselling services in promoting regular testing and supporting linkage to care. Workplace-based HIV self-testing is a feasible and acceptable strategy for increasing testing frequency among long-distance truck drivers in this setting. The available evidence, though limited, indicates it can address key barriers related to mobility and time constraints. Programme planners should prioritise integrated, employer-supported HIVST services at major transit points. Further operational research is required to determine cost-effectiveness and to develop optimal strategies for sustaining linkage to care and prevention services within this mobile workforce. HIV self-testing, key populations, long-distance truck drivers, workplace health, Uganda, linkage to care. This review consolidates evidence on a targeted intervention for a high-risk group, providing a foundation for public health planners and employers to develop more effective, context-specific HIV testing programmes along a major transport corridor.