Rapid HIV, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis Screening in a Rural Street Medicine Clinic in West Virginia

Summary

West Virginia faces rising rates of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis, particularly among individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges. Traditional blood-draw testing for these infections is often hindered by mistrust, logistical barriers, and delays in results. This study, conducted by the West Virginia University (WVU) Street Medicine program, evaluates a rapid, point-of-care fingerstick test for HIV, Hepatitis C, and syphilis that provides results within 10-20 minutes during mobile clinic visits. Participants may choose rapid testing, traditional blood draw (which also includes Hepatitis B screening), or decline testing. All participants will be invited to complete a brief survey about the experiences with screening methods. The goal is to assess whether rapid testing improves screening uptake, linkage to care, and patient satisfaction, ultimately reducing barriers and disease burden in high-risk populations.

Eligibility

Age range

18+ years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Interventions

• Diagnostic Test
  Rapid Fingerstick Test

  Fingerstick test for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and Syphilis that gives results within 10-20 minutes

• Diagnostic Test
  Blood Draw for lab test

  Blood draw to test for HIV, Hepatitis B \& C, and syphilis which can take up to 3 days for results

Location