Nicole Johns reviewed preliminary findings of last year's OHP focus groups concerning heterosexuals with low socioeconomic status at the February 2016 meeting of the Philadelphia HIV Prevention Planning Group (HPG).

1. KEY FINDINGS
Focus Groups with Heterosexuals of low SES

2. Demographics
• 4 groups- 2 men/2 women (21 people)
• Ages 29-62
• Majority African American (19)
• Most had hs diploma or equivalency
• Most earned less than $10,000/year
• Most rented/owned their homes, 1 homeless, 2 staying
with family and friends

3. HIV testing sites
Acceptable
• Expertise in HIV
• Friendly staff
• Cultural competency
• Respect for privacy and
confidentiality
• Linkage to HIV services
• Incentives (cash, food, gift
cards)
Unacceptable
• ASOs - stigma concerns
• Health Center 1 - it is
crowded and takes too
long

4. Thoughts on HIV testing
• Social support through “buddies” or friends/partners can combat fear
and stigma
• Community-based and routine testing needed in Black communities
• Incentives work
• Women
• Individuals experiencing homelessness
• Black men
• Reasons for testing:
• Just to find out
• I was at risk
• Doctor suggested it
• Because I felt sick
• Routine check up

5. Themes
• Poverty and access to healthcare
• Homelessness
• Mental illness and trauma
• Caregiving
• Mistrust of doctors
• Stigma
• Dignity and cultural competency

6. Ideal place for healthcare
• Respectful
• Clear communication
• Health education
• Social support
• Accessible
• Welcoming waiting rooms
• Incentives like food and gift cards

7. Recommendations
• Honor and maintain patient dignity in all settings
• Info about PrEP in all HIV testing counseling
• Community level campaign in Black communities
• Trauma Informed care essential
• Adult health education in community settings
• Routine testing in primary care in high prevalence
communities
• Holistic care with mental and physical health and social
support