Assessment of Quality of VCT Services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

HIV testing and counseling are entry points to HIV- related care and prevention services, and provide opportunities for people to reduce their risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. This cross sectional study used standardized structured questionnaires. The study involved 41 different VCT sites, 65 VCT counselors and 403 VCT clients for exit interview. Six clients per counselor for exit interview were selected systematically. Majority of the VCT sites in Addis Ababa fulfilled the minimum requirements recommended by the WHO. There seemed to be lack of ongoing counseling training and support for counselors. There was a high satisfaction rate by the clients. However, counseling session durations were found to be less than the recommended. The regional government should take measures to enhance quality VCT services within the already available sites and establish more free standing sites. A strong counselors support group should be formed and be able to enroll as many members as possible. Further studies should apply direct observation of counseling sessions.