Date of Conferral

2017

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Vasileios Margaritis

Abstract

HIV screening is recommended to destigmatize the condition, prevent partner transmission, and postpone AIDS progression. However, determinants associated with implementation of opt-out HIV screening are not well understood. The purpose of the study was to examine determinants that predicted odds of HIV screening for persons impacted by Hurricane Sandy, and how these factors differed according to demographic characteristics, geographical attributes, health-related quality of life score, access-to-care, and health insurance status. The social ecologic model provided the framework for this multilevel cross-sectional study that included New Jersey data from the Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System. Bivariate chi-square, simple logistic regression, and adjusted multivariate and weighted logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate HIV screening odds. Findings indicated a significant odds ratio with access to care post- Hurricane Sandy and HIV screening (odds ratio = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.38-2.21). The positive social change implications may include assisting people to develop realistic plans for HIV screening, improving understanding of HIV screening determinants, and raising awareness of the risk factors related with access to medical care post-Hurricane Sandy.

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