The National AIDS & STI Control Programme (NACP) is rolling out new approaches to strengthen early detection and prevention of HIV, officials said on Friday.
Caroline Adonadaga, Head of Prevention, Counselling and Nutrition at NACP, explained that HIV testing is now being integrated as a routine service across all public and private health facilities. “These days we are not sitting there for people to come and say, ‘I want to have an HIV test done,’” she said. “As and when you are at the facility, we offer the service, free of charge, as part of your routine care. You can opt out if you choose.”
The approach covers outpatient departments, inpatient wards, nutrition rehabilitation units, and maternal health services, with a focus on reaching pregnant women, where uptake has reportedly improved.
Adonadaga also highlighted the availability of HIV self-testing kits, which patients can use at home. “We provide instructions and video guidance so that individuals can test themselves comfortably and privately,” she said. Kits are distributed through NACP and select facilities nationwide.
The move forms part of Ghana’s broader strategy to reduce new HIV infections by increasing accessibility to testing, normalising early detection, and encouraging individuals to know their status.
Officials urged the public to take advantage of these services and emphasised that testing is confidential, free, and available across the country.