Perceptions, preferences and access to community-based HIV testing services among Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) in Côte d'Ivoire
Background: Dedicated HIV testing settings have been developed for Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) since the end of the 2000s. These facilities are supported by community-based NGOs and promoted by peer educators, who are trained in the use of rapid HIV tests. As such, this community-based HIV-testing should be adapted to reach the MSM populations. However, little is known about the direct MSM’ point of view regarding such community-based services. Materials and methods: A respondent-driven sampling telephone survey of 518 MSM was conducted in 2018 in Côte d'Ivoire. The questionnaire examined knowledge, practice, satisfaction, and preferences regarding MSM-community-based HIV testing services. Results: Only half of the respondents (47%) reported knowing a community-based HIV testing site dedicated to MSM. Of these, 79% had already attended one. They reported that they were welcomed, that they felt confident, that confidentiality was respected, and 95% said they would return to one of these sites. In terms of preferences, 37% of respondents said they preferred undifferentiated HIV testing sites (i.e., “all patients” or “general population” HIV testing sites), 34% preferred community-based sites, and 29% had no preference. Those who preferred community-based HIV testing reported better listening and feeling more confident, particularly because of the presence of other MSM. Conversely, those preferring undifferentiated HIV testing sites mentioned the lack of discretion and anonymity of community-based sites and wanting to avoid the gaze of others. They feared to be recognized by other patients in a context where they want to keep secret their sexual preferences. Men who were furthest away from the MSM community, defining themselves as bisexual/heterosexual, attracted primarily to women, not knowing a dedicated MSM NGO, or not having disclosed their homo/bisexuality to one member of their family were more likely to prefer undifferentiated HIV testing sites. Conclusion: Community-based HIV testing is well suited for MSM who identify as homosexual and those close to the MSM community while maintaining undifferentiated HIV testing is essential for others. Both types of activities need to be maintained and developed. It is also crucial that healthcare professionals in undifferentiated HIV testing sites are properly trained in non-judgemental reception of people with diverse sexual practices and identities.
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