The proportion and characteristics of adolescents who return for anonymous HIV test results

Background: The proportion of adolescents who return for HIV test results varies widely, and knowledge of what characteristics affect their return is limited. Goal: To quantify the proportion of adolescents who return for results of anonymous HIV tests, and to identify the characteristics that predict their return. Study Design: This retrospective study evaluated 285 adolescents consenting to anonymous HIV tests in an urban clinic that provides medical services free of charge without eligibility requirements to a mostly working, uninsured population. Results: Of the adolescents studied, 42% returned for test results. Three characteristics independently predicted their return: (1) coming to the clinic only for HIV testing, (2) having private health insurance, and (3) engaging in unprotected sex while using drugs or alcohol. Conclusions: Except for having unprotected sex while using drugs or alcohol, the characteristics that placed adolescents at risk for HIV infection did not predict their return for test results. Given the low return rate for anonymous testing in this setting, confidential testing, which permits follow-up evaluation of those failing to return for test results, should be considered.