Title: Opt-in approach to HIV testing
Course: Communicable Diseases Part 3 - Ethiopia (Full)

Opt-in approach to HIV testing

In this approach, you should provide information and individual counselling to the client about HIV/AIDS, about testing for HIV and about the consequences for their lives if they test positive. The pregnant woman is given the choice of either refusing or consenting to a HIV test. This option should be presented in a neutral, supportive manner. Women who 'opt in' explicitly request to be tested, and their informed consent is clearly established. The opt-in approach requires an active step by the individual woman to agree to be tested.

Remember, consent can be given either in writing or verbally. Women should not be coerced into giving consent.