Authors
Dr. Muhammed Shaffi, MBBS, MPH1,2
1Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
2UNICEF Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Background: AIDS has caused the greatest reversal in human development. Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) services are crucial gateways to HIV prevention, care, and treatment, enhancing community preparedness. Initially focused on symptomatic diagnosis, VCT’s scope has expanded significantly with advancements like antiretroviral therapy and cost-effective preventive interventions, making VCT for asymptomatic individuals increasingly vital.
Objective: This article reviews the existing literature on HIV/AIDS counseling services, exploring their concept, approaches, impact on behavior, effectiveness, evaluation methods, utilization factors, and quality determinants.
Methods: This is a comprehensive review of literature on HIV/AIDS counseling services, synthesizing findings from various studies and reports globally.
Key Findings: The review highlights the diverse models of VCT, its role in influencing risk-reducing and help-seeking behaviors, and its proven cost-effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission. Factors affecting VCT utilization include fear, cost, stigma, and accessibility, while quality is influenced by location, infrastructure, and counselor performance. The importance of client-centered counseling and ongoing counselor support is emphasized.
Conclusion: VCT centers are foundational to HIV/AIDS prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. While substantial evidence exists globally, particularly from Africa, there is a notable scarcity of literature from regions like the Indian subcontinent, underscoring the need for further research and evaluation in these areas.