Evaluation of an HIV Testing Program in the Jail Setting: Results and Recommendations

• NCJ Number: 245873
• Journal: Prison Journal Volume: 93 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2013 Pages: 57-79
• Author(s): Christine Tartaro; Marissa P. Levy
• Date Published: March 2013
• Length: 23 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Prison and jail inmates tend to be involved disproportionately in behavior that places them at risk for HIV transmission.

Abstract

Prison and jail inmates tend to be involved disproportionately in behavior that places them at risk for HIV transmission. The state of New Jersey, and its urban areas in particular, has a high rate of African American residents living with HIV or AIDS. In an effort to reach several urban areas where individuals have not yet been diagnosed, a southern New Jersey county jail has begun offering free rapid HIV tests on a voluntary basis. Results indicate that correctional facilities were among the most common places for inmates to receive testing and that those tested were involved in numerous high-risk sexual and/or drug activities. Recommendations for future testing and education programs are provided. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage.