Voluntary Counseling and Testing provides for all segments of the population, an opportunity to access complete and accurate information on HIV/AIDS. This is a critical entry point to prevention, care, support and treatment for all people, and particularly for those already infected and affected. It enables a person to confidentially explore and understand his or her risk of HIV infection, provides an opportunity to fully comprehend the implications of one’s sero status and to learn about precautions for protection and for preventing the further spread of HIV infection. VCT facilities personal and more informed decisions about HIV testing.
Counseling in VCT consists of pre-test and post-test counseling. During pre-test counseling the counselor provides to the individual / couple an opportunity to explore and analyze their situation and consider being tested for HIV. It facilitates more informed decisions about HIV testing. After the individual / couple has received accurate and complete information they reach an understanding about all that is involved. In the event that after counseling the individual decides to take the HIV test, VCT enables confidential HIV testing.
VCT services enable the ‘client’ with the help of a trained counselor to confidentially explore and understand his or her risk of HIV infection and to learn several strategies for preventing HIV and reducing the risk of acquiring of transmitting HIV infection.
Chennai Corporation AIDS prevention and Control Society has provided 6 voluntary counseling and testing services in Govt. hospitals and corporation health posts under Chennai Corporation limit. These centers provide free testing and pre-test, post-test counseling to the clients who has undergone HIV/AIDS test and give awareness about STD/AIDS.
