Lost opportunities to identify and treat <scp>HIV</scp>‐positive patients: results from a baseline assessment of provider‐initiated <scp>HIV</scp> testing and counselling (PITC) in <scp>M</scp>alawi

Abstract

Various models of PITC currently exist at MoH facilities in Malawi. Only antenatal and maternity clinics demonstrated high rates of routine opt-out PITC. The low ratio of facility visits to HIV tests suggests missed opportunities for HIV testing. However, the high proportion of patients at TB and antenatal clinics with known HIV status suggests that routine PITC is feasible. These results underscore the need to develop clear, standardised PITC policy and protocols, and to address obstacles of limited health commodities, infrastructure and human resources.