(P83) ASSESSING THE ACCEPTABILITY OF SELF-ADMINISTERED AND AT-HOME STI/HIV TESTING AMONG CLINICS OF CHICAGO PUBLIC HEALTH STI SPECIALTY CLINICS

Background:
Amid rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Chicago, innovative testing strategies are urgently needed, particularly self-administered or at-home testing (SAHT).  This study explores patient preferences for SAHT over conventional clinic-based methods among attendees of Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) STI Specialty Clinics.

Methods:
Clients attending two CDPH STI clinics were offered an anonymous, tablet-based self-completed survey between June and September 2023. In addition to data on demographics, reasons for visit, health insurance, access to care, respondents answered Likert scale questions about their likelihood to use SAHT for STIs if cost was not a barrier, considering different aspects of the testing process. Descriptive statistics summarized responses.

Results:
Among 316 participants, 71.5% were male, 28.85% female, 39% gay or bisexual, 33% non-Hispanic (NH) White, 28% Black, and 74 % were 18-34 years-old. Among 316 respondents, 75.3% (238/316) were “very likely” to use point-of-care SAHT that offered instant results. Online ordering and home delivery were “very likely” to be used by 52.7% and 58.5% of respondents, respectively. Notably, preferences were diverse; for example, 44.4% were very likely to use SAHT involving finger pricking, while 46.7% showed a similar preference for anal swabbing, and 56% were very likely to use SAHT involving swabbing genitals. Only 40% of respondents indicated a high likelihood of using/picking up SAHT from clinics.

Conclusion:
The data indicate a strong patient preference for SAHT that is convenient and offers immediate results. Despite the high acceptability of multiple SAHT methods, preferences varied, underscoring the importance of providing diverse options to cater to individual needs. The findings support the potential integration of various SAHT options into public health strategies to increase accessibility and frequency of STI/HIV testing, particularly when clinic access is constrained. These preferences can guide the development of patient-centered services that enhance public health outcomes.