Testing and Counseling Centers (TCC) in Rio de Janeiro city, and access to the HIV diagnosis for the black population: a qualitative analysis

Abstract

Access to health services is a constitutional right. Access is considered as the capacity to obtain health care when necessary, in an easy and convenient way. Challenges for health management include unequal access as one of the main problems. Clear differences in health service usage rates indicate severe access inequality and reflect social inequality. This research aims at discussing the black population's access to the HIV diagnosis in Rio de Janeiro city. The qualitative method was chosen. Data were collected through 62 semi-structured interviews with people who declared themselves black or mulatto and visited the Testing and Counseling Center (TCC) to take the HIV test. Data analysis was based on the premises of the Collective Subject Discourse. Most interviewees did not report any difficulties to get access to the HIV test. The repressed demand at the TCC was identified as a barrier, due to the limited test offer caused by material and human resource issues. No statement was found that demonstrated color/race discrimination during contact with the service. Factors appointed as facilitating test access included: free test, indication or referral by health professionals or service, access to the test site, service credibility, rapid care and absence of bureaucracy.