(P337) Self-sampling and self-testing for HIV at a commercial and community test service in the Netherlands: usability and user preferences

Background

At-home HIV testing (self-testing and self-sampling) reduces testing barriers and potentially reaches populations who may not test otherwise. In the Netherlands, at-home HIV tests became commercially available in 2019, but data on user experiences are limited. Aim of this study was to explore characteristics of end users and their experiences with HIV self-testing (HIVST) or -sampling (HIVSS).

Methods

From April 2022 (ongoing) a survey link was distributed among end users who ordered a commercial HIVSS online or a free-of-charge HIVST via a community test service in the Netherlands. Questions included usability, preferences, and barriers of testing. In descriptive analyses, we compared characteristics of end users and their experiences with HIVST or HIVSS from commercial and community test services.

Results (preliminary)

Of 100 end users completing the questionnaire, 64 participated via the commercial provider (HIVSS with lab results) and 36 via the community test service (HIVST). Most participants (37%) were 25-34 years old; 63% were male of whom 57% were men having sex with men (MSM). Of MSM, 25% and of heterosexuals 58% had never tested for HIV or longer than three years ago.

None of the participants reported a reactive test, but 32% were worried about having HIV. Having a free-of-charge test (97%), immediate test result (64%), anonymity (53%), and saving time (53%) were the most often reported reasons to test via the community service. Anonymity (30%) was less often reported by those choosing the commercial provider, but saving time (38%), not having to talk about testing to a GP (44%), and waiting lists at the STI clinic (34%) were often reported. 24% experienced (some) difficulties doing the HIVST/HIVSS, mostly (83%) about obtaining enough blood through the finger prick. Participants’ recommendations included lower costs, repeated testing subscription, or guidance on combined STI/HIV testing (commercial provider), and more access locations and follow-up on testing experiences (community service).

Conclusion

End users experience HIVST/HIVSS as private, anonymous and timesaving. Yet difficulties with performing the finger prick were reported and recommendations to improve services were made. Further research is needed to determine the value of HIVST/HIVSS in HIV testing policy in the Netherlands.