Are VA primary care providers aware of HIV testing recommendations for veterans? Findings at an Urban VA primary care clinic

Given the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in veterans and that nearly 90% of veterans have not been HIV tested, the Veterans Affairs (VA) has recommended routine HIV testing of all veterans. The objective of this study carried out at an urban VA primary care clinic was to assess provider knowledge of recent U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and VA HIV testing recommendations and policies. Fifty-six primary care providers completed a survey. Nearly 40% of providers were unaware of the CDC recommendation to test all persons ages 13 to 64 in health care settings or the VA policy to test veterans of all ages. Over 75% of providers were unaware of the latest requirements for pre- and posttest counseling, and many were unaware of the latest consent process requirements. Educating VA providers about recent HIV testing recommendations and policies may improve the low HIV testing prevalence in the VA.