The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is making progress in introducing HIV rapid antigen testing for specific populations and locations. Dr. Rachel Devi, the Head of Family Health, explained that antibody testing is currently the primary method employed in Fiji.
She described the point-of-care testing method, where individuals can visit a clinic, provide a blood sample, and receive results within approximately 20 minutes. Currently, sexual reproductive health centers offer this type of testing, and the ministry aims to expand point-of-care testing in Fiji for confirmation purposes as well.
Dr. Devi mentioned that the ministry has not yet delved into the option of HIV rapid antigen self-testing, especially for those hesitant to seek testing at medical facilities. She highlighted concerns regarding the potential repercussions if individuals test positive at home and emphasized the need for better education to prepare the population for such situations.
She stressed the importance of providing thorough counseling to patients after receiving HIV test results, stating that many people retreat into isolation upon learning they are HIV positive. Mental and psychological preparation is crucial for individuals to cope with the diagnosis effectively.
The antigen testing process represents a shift in the testing methodology and will be conducted by healthcare professionals rather than self-administered. The ministry is also focusing on decentralizing diagnostic confirmation services, moving away from reliance solely on major hospitals and divisional hospitals.
Dr. Devi noted that confirmation testing will soon be available at sexual reproductive health clinics and other sites. Individuals will be encouraged to return for a repeat test after three months, particularly if they have engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse or used injectable drugs recently. Test results will help determine if individuals have participated in unsafe sexual practices. Repeating the test is essential to assess any new infections that may have occurred since the last encounter unless the individual was already HIV positive before that encounter.