The Role of Voluntary Counselling and Testing Points (VCTs) in HIV Diagnostics – Analysis of VCTs Activity in Poland in the Context of Local and European Epidemiology

Abstract

Screening tests are now readily accessible, quick and highly sensitive. Diagnostics of HIV infections involves serological testing followed by confirmation tests by molecular biology methods (NAAT). Fast, accurate, anonymous and free HIV testing has been provided by Voluntary Counselling and Testing Points (VCTs) for over 20 years to any adult in Poland, regardless of nationality. Additionally, the educational activities are conducted aimed at informing people from various social backgrounds about HIV prevention and diagnostic possibilities, as well as other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The aim of the article was to present the procedures for the operation of VCTs in Poland, their location, testing scheme and a summary of the activities that promote such points in the medical community. Between 2019 and 2023, 157,833 people registered for HIV testing in VCTs in Poland, of which 10,177 (6.45%) were foreigners. In the analyzed period, the number of tests among foreigners visiting VCTs in Poland almost doubled, from 1,552 in 2019 to 2,827 in 2023. In addition, a higher percentage of positive results was recorded among foreigners – 5.08% compared to Poles – 1.24%. The frequency analysis of positive results detection reported in VCTs vs. National Institute of Public Health NIH – National Research Institute showed that, on average 26% (2,342/8,891) of positive results in Poland from 2019–2023 were detected in the framework of tests carried out in VCTs. The operation of VCT points in Poland enables the reaching of a larger group of people, especially key adult populations. It is a valuable complement to routine diagnostics outside the health care system.

Keywords

• check point
• diagnostic
• hiv
• testing
• voluntary counselling and testing points (vcts)