Implementing an HIV Rapid Testing–Linkage-to-Care Project Among Homeless Individuals in Los Angeles County: A Collaborative Effort Between Federal, County, and City Government

Objectives. We developed and implemented an HIV rapid testing–linkage-to-care initiative between federal and local government.Methods. We used mixed methodology; HIV testing data were collected on-site, and qualitative data were collected via telephone. We used postintervention stakeholder and staff interviews to evaluate barriers and facilitators to this initiative.Results. We tested 817 individuals. We identified and confirmed 7 preliminary HIV positive individuals (0.86% seropositivity), 5 of whom were linked to care. Mean testing cost was $48.95 per client; cost per positive result was $5714.Conclusions. This initiative can be used as a template for other health departments and research teams focusing on homelessness and mitigation of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.