Exploring HIV Testing Service Models for Enhanced Positivity Yield in Southern Africa, 2022: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: In 2015, the World Health Organization issued HIV testing guidelines that shifted the global focus on HIV testing, from testing for coverage to targeted testing. This was done to enhance positivity yield and increase efficiency in the utilization of finite resources. In response, various nations developed varied models of implementation, which has exposed varied implementation of the targeted testing mantra. Because of the varied interpretations as shown by the many models that were developed in response to the guidelines, the success of the strategies remains unknown. Targeted testing is particularly important for Southern Africa, which, until this day, bears a disproportionate burden of HIV. Methods : We, therefore, intend to conduct a systematic review of all studies on targeted testing models that were developed and are being implemented in Southern Africa. Further, we will examine each identified model and its documented contribution to the identification of HIV positive clients Discussion: In Southern Africa, HIV/AIDS caused 336,175 deaths and more than 20 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) in 2017 alone (9,10). Southern Africa remain the epicentre of HIV/AIDS with the top 10 high burdened countries all being within the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC). This study will therefore recommend the most effective Targeted HIV testing models for utilization in resource-limited settings.