HIV Testing Services and Universal Routine Testing

HIV Testing Services (HTS) are a core component of public health education in Zambian tertiary institutions, covering all services provided alongside HIV testing. This includes pre-test information, post-test counseling, and linking individuals to appropriate prevention, treatment, and care. The topic specifically examines Universal Routine HIV Testing, a policy mandating that all individuals presenting to health facilities in Zambia be offered an HIV test, moving away from CD4 count-based eligibility for treatment. For university students in medicine, nursing, public health, and laboratory sciences, understanding HTS is essential for implementing national testing algorithms, ensuring quality assurance, and supporting the 'test and treat' strategy. This knowledge is critical for examinations and for future healthcare professionals to contribute effectively to Zambia's 90-90-90 targets and overall epidemic control efforts.