Matsavana

Researchers are evaluating an expanded Healer-Initiated HIV Testing and Linkage to Care intervention in rural South Africa to address gaps in regular HIV testing. The study focuses on populations with low socioeconomic status, men, rural residents, and those who distrust the health system, who often see traditional healers for their health needs. Traditional healers are being engaged to help increase HIV testing and linkage to care, aiming to support South Africa's progress toward the 95-95-95 HIV goals. The intervention involves training traditional healers to provide HIV counseling and testing in their own clinics. Healers will advertise free testing services, offer partner-based testing at their facilities or client homes, and conduct monthly community outreach activities at local events. They will also support linkage to care by accompanying clients to their first clinical appointments, providing adherence support in person or via WhatsApp, and participating in a support group with nurses and community health workers. This is a cluster randomized controlled trial comparing standard care to enhanced testing with healer support across 42 clinical catchment areas. Participants will receive HIV testing and counseling services from traditional healers, who will monitor and support their care and treatment adherence. Researchers will measure the uptake of HIV counseling and testing over 24 months to assess the intervention's impact. The study will also evaluate how well the intervention is adopted and maintained, along with its cost-effectiveness. The total duration of participation includes ongoing testing and support activities over two years.