African Journal of Public Health and Health Systems | 15 June 2014
Evaluating a Workplace-Based HIV Self-Testing and Linkage Programme on Testing Frequency Among Male Factory Workers in Durban, South Africa
T, h, a, n, d, i, w, e, N, k, o, s, i, ,, P, i, e, t, e, r, v, a, n, d, e, r, M, e, r, w, e
Abstract
HIV testing rates among working-age men in South Africa are suboptimal, hindering progress towards epidemic control. Workplace-based interventions present a strategic avenue to reach this population, yet evidence for HIV self-testing (HIVST) programmes increasing routine testing frequency in industrial settings is limited. This study evaluated the effect of a structured workplace-based HIV self-testing and linkage programme on the frequency of HIV testing among male factory workers in Durban, South Africa. A mixed-methods, pre-post intervention study was implemented at a large manufacturing plant. Male employees were offered oral-fluid HIVST kits and access to a dedicated on-site linkage officer. Quantitative data on self-reported testing history were collected via anonymous questionnaires. Focus group discussions explored barriers and facilitators to routine testing. The proportion of participants reporting HIV testing at least twice in a 12-month period increased significantly from 24% pre-intervention to 67% post-intervention. Qualitative data emphasised the critical role of confidentiality, convenience, and the supportive link to care in encouraging regular testing. The workplace-based HIVST and linkage programme substantially increased testing frequency among male factory workers, demonstrating its potential as a viable model for promoting routine testing in comparable industrial settings. Workplace health programmes should integrate HIV self-testing with dedicated linkage support services. Further research should investigate the long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness of such models. HIV self-testing, workplace health, men’s health, South Africa, linkage to care, testing frequency This study provides evidence on the implementation and effectiveness of an integrated HIV self-testing and linkage programme within an industrial workplace setting in sub-Saharan Africa.