HIV and STI Care Continuums

The continuum of care (e.g., prevention, screening, and linkage to care) for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are unreliable in rural areas of the United States (U.S.). Geographic isolation and poverty may increase need for basic human services and further confound screening and care. Since engagements with the care continuum are positively correlated with prognosis and negatively correlated with disease transmission, there remains a critical public health need to address vulnerable populations in rural, underserved areas through the development of the care continuum.

Those living in rural areas of the U.S. are less likely to engage in routine HIV and STI testing, identify HIV and STI testing resources, or receive comprehensive HIV and STI education.