VIDEO: Outreach Testing

Published Jul 20, 2016

Share

In late 2011, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) launched the Mobile 1 Stop Shop (M1SS). These are mobile testing units (tents or a van) that provide information, HIV Counselling & Testing, screening for tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy testing, condom distribution, health promotion and mobilisation for Medical Male Circumcision. Practice may change with the implementation of Test & Start, but people currently testing positive are provided with a CD4 count point of care test (PIMA), and referred to the nearest health facility if necessary. 

Depending on the location and expected number of beneficiaries, each team consists of one or more HIV counsellors and site mobilisers. 

undefined

Mobile outreach testing occurs at farms, schools, taxi ranks, churches, local businesses and during community events. 

In August 2012 MSF established three Fixed Sites providing the same services as the M1SS sites, and staffed by lay counsellors and mobilisers. 

Two sites are located along the main street in Eshowe, a third at the TVET college in Eshowe and a fourth recently opened in Mamba, in rural Mbongolwane. 

Some mobile and stand-alone sites have added a nurse to the team to treat minor ailments and distribute chronic medications, including ARV drugs.

Related Topics: