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Heather D. Batson, BA and Jennifer Lauby, PhD. Research and Evaluation, Philadelphia Health Management Corporation, 260 South Broad, 18th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19102, (215) 985 2500, heather@phmc.org
Background: Many people, including men who have sex with men (MSM), are infected with HIV yet are unaware because they have not had a recent HIV test. Methods: Men who had male sex partners within the past 5 years were recruited at selected community locations. These men completed interviews about HIV testing, health care experiences, sexual experiences, and other issues (N=451). Analysis of recent testing behaviors was restricted to men who had never received a positive test result (N=397). Results: Of this subgroup, 43% had not tested for HIV in the past 12 months, including 43 men who had never been tested. Regression analysis revealed that when controlling for sexual identity, race, and SES variables, younger age (OR=.955, p=.003) and self-report of a doctor’s visit in the past year (OR=2.8, p=.001) were important predictors of having a recent HIV test. Further regression analysis controlling for race, SES, and age variables showed that identifying as “gay” (rather than bisexual, straight, or other), higher levels of disclosure to family and friends, and having any medical insurance were positively associated with a doctor’s visit within the past year. Conclusions: Increasing access to and use of regular medical care services may lead to more appropriate HIV testing among MSM, regardless of sexual identity. However, men who partner with men but do not consider themselves gay, or who do not disclose their sexual behaviors with men to their friends and family may experience barriers to accessing health care beyond those associated with SES.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.