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Evaluation of community pharmacy outreach events to promote screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Evaluation of community pharmacy outreach events to promote screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Destanie Truman, Robert Nichols, Stevie Veach, Enas Yehya and Matthew Witry
JAPhA practice innovations, 100107
03/2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.japhpi.2026.100107
url
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japhpi.2026.100107View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant public health concern, with approximately 1.2 million individuals in the U.S. living with HIV and 13% unaware of their status. Community pharmacists are positioned to engage in HIV screening and education. The study aimed to 1) assess perceptions of HIV risk, HIV related knowledge, and public attitudes toward community pharmacist-provided HIV testing and 2) evaluate pharmacists offering HIV testing at community events. A cross-sectional survey was administered to adults attending three community events where pharmacists were present to provide HIV education and testing. Participants completed an anonymous 16-item electronic survey via a QR code covering demographics, perceived risks, attitudes toward community pharmacist-provided HIV testing, and HIV knowledge. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used to analyze data. Impact was evaluated through the number of attendees and the number of HIV tests administered. Among 260 attendees, 58 individuals completed the survey (response rate: 22.3%). Most respondents were women (70.9%) aged 25-31 and white (76.4%). Perceived HIV risk was low 60% believed they were extremely unlikely to acquire HIV. HIV knowledge score averaged 3.4 out of 5, and 70% correctly identified CDC testing guidelines. Attitude toward pharmacy-based HIV testing was generally positive. Regression analysis showed that younger age was significantly associated with a more favorable attitude (p=0.044). Free testing emerged as a key facilitator; more than half of participants strongly agreed that they would undergo HIV testing in a pharmacy if it were offered at no cost. Most respondents were positive toward pharmacist-led HIV testing, especially younger adults, although some reported concerns about confidentiality and preferred no-cost HIV testing. Pharmacy-based HIV testing during community events is a promising approach to expand testing and education.

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