Open AccessAttitudes and Perceptions About Disclosing HIV and Syphilis Results Using Smarttest, a Smartphone App Dedicated to Self- and Partner Testing
Author(s) -
Bryan A. Kutner,
Anthony Pho,
Javier López-Rios,
Cody Lentz,
Curtis Dolezal,
Iván C. Balán
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
aids education and prevention
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.309
H-Index - 73
eISSN - 1943-2755
pISSN - 0899-9546
DOI - 10.1521/aeap.2021.33.3.234
Subject(s) - syphilis , test (biology) , linkage (software) , psychology , internet privacy , medicine , self disclosure , optimism , human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) , clinical psychology , family medicine , social psychology , computer science , paleontology , biochemistry , chemistry , gene , biology
We explored interest in disclosing test results through a smartphone app dedicated to self- and partner testing for HIV/syphilis. Fifty-nine cisgender men and transgender women each participated in an in-person survey and interview. We examined their interests in sharing test results by audience (e.g., partners, physicians) and by positive versus negative test result. Participants wanted the ability to share results, with notable interest in disclosing negative results to sexual partners and on social media and forwarding positive results to physicians. Participants envisioned smartphone sharing as a means to normalize testing, to notify partners of results, and to expedite linkage to care. Some questioned the authenticity of results shared by smartphone, while others voiced optimism that a personalized, authenticated app could ensure the security and veracity of results. Smartphone testing apps for HIV/syphilis may facilitate disclosure, partner notification, and linkage to care, but need to address concerns about the security and veracity of results.