Workplace-based HIV interventions are important in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly for large, mobile workforces in industrial settings. In Ethiopia, industrial parks employ many workers, but barriers to conventional HIV testing and linkage to care remain, which can delay antiretroviral therapy initiation. This case study assessed the effect of a workplace-based HIV self-testing and linkage programme on antiretroviral therapy initiation rates among factory workers in a major Addis Ababa industrial park. A descriptive case study design was used. The programme provided on-site HIV self-testing kits with private, post-test counselling and facilitated referral to antiretroviral therapy services. Programme records on testing uptake and linkage outcomes were analysed. Key informant interviews were conducted with programme staff and a sample of participating workers to explore implementation experiences. The programme was feasible and demonstrated high acceptability. Among workers who tested positive through self-testing, over 85% were successfully linked to care and initiated antiretroviral therapy within 30 days of their result. Interviews identified the perceived convenience and confidentiality of the workplace-based self-testing model as key facilitators. Integrating HIV self-testing and linkage support within the workplace setting can reduce barriers and improve timely antiretroviral therapy initiation among industrial park workers. Scale-up of similar workplace self-testing programmes in other industrial parks should be considered, with sustained focus on robust and confidential linkage mechanisms. Further operational research is needed to assess long-term retention in care. HIV self-testing, workplace health, antiretroviral therapy, linkage to care, Ethiopia, case study This case study provides practical evidence for public health practitioners and policymakers on implementing a workplace-based HIV self-testing and linkage model in an Ethiopian industrial setting.
Koffi Agbemenu (Thu,) studied this question.