Distribution through outreach
Outreach programs increase access by bringing services to people in the community with a flexible and proactive approach that meets them where they are. Organizations can consider integrating HIV self-test kit distribution into existing outreach services or develop outreach services that are specifically dedicated to the distribution of self-test kits. Bringing self-test kits out to communities with other services (e.g., distribution of sexual health and harm reduction supplies) can help to normalize and destigmatize HIV testing and to act as a conversation starter and a way to engage clients in discussions about other supports that they may want. However, outreach can be challenging if organizations are not well connected to the community and are unaware of locations that could be good places to meet community members. Outreach is also resource intensive as it requires travelling and taking the time to engage with people on a variety of topics.
“Bringing the test to people instead of bringing people to the test” – Dialogue participant
For English subtitles, click “CC” before playing the video.
The following best-practice recommendations outline strategies to consider when developing or integrating approaches to distributing HIV self-test kits through outreach.
Practice-based recommendations:
1. Consider integrating self-test kit distribution into existing outreach services (e.g., harm reduction and safer sex supply distribution) or developing new HIV-self testing outreach services. Consider having outreach workers take self-test kits with them whenever they are out in the community.
2. Consider conducting street-based outreach initiatives in locations where the communities that you are trying to reach gather (e.g., encampments, parks).
3. Consider distributing self-test kits in trusted community spaces (e.g., bathhouses, bars, shelters and barber shops). Consider setting up a self-test kit dispenser in these locations.
4. Consider using mobile outreach vans, particularly in rural and underserved areas where healthcare services may be limited or where people may face other barriers to accessing services. This can provide convenient access to self-test kits alongside other services and supplies (e.g., testing programs, sexual health or harm reduction supplies).
5. Consider establishing alliances with religious leaders to promote HIV testing within religious spaces, recognizing the importance of respecting cultural and religious beliefs and working collaboratively to address concerns and build trust through open dialogue and understanding.
6. If partnering with Indigenous organizations on outreach initiatives, engage with respect and cultural humility. Use approaches that will resonate with the communities that you serve (e.g., land-based approaches to outreach).