Citation

Klein SJ, Tesoriero JM, Leung SY, Heavner KK, Birkhead GS. J. Public Health Manag. Pract. 2008; 14(5): 420-428.

Affiliation

AIDS Institute, New York State Department of Health, Corning Tower, Room 412, Albany, NY 12237, USA. sjk06@health.state.ny.us

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/01.PHH.0000333875.32701.ca

PMID

18708884

Abstract

Interventions to prevent intimate partner violence (IPV), including among those at risk for or living with HIV/AIDS, are needed. In 2001, screening persons who test positive for HIV for risk of IPV was required in New York State, launching the first large-scale program to screen for IPV risk in conjunction with HIV counseling and testing (HCT). Written surveys of counselors, physicians, and agency supervisors explored attitudes, practices, knowledge, and training needs surrounding screening for risk of IPV during HCT. Most HCT providers were aware of screening requirements, but practice varied. Counselors were more likely to screen than were physicians and asked more screening questions. Despite guidelines, screening was generally not standardized and sporadic. IPV screening in conjunction with HCT is possible. Building capacity and commitment of local HCT providers through provision of training and by fostering partnerships with public health partner services staff can help overcome identified barriers to preventing IPV in a high-risk population.

Language: en