Prenatal HIV Testing Practices Among Obstetricians
Author Information
Author(s): William R. Robinson, Michael Fleischer
Primary Institution: Tulane University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the practice habits of obstetricians regarding prenatal HIV testing and management strategies for HIV-seropositive patients?
Conclusion
Obstetricians in this community have largely accepted routine prenatal HIV testing but play a limited role in risk reduction counseling and treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- 60.6% of obstetricians test all new obstetric patients for HIV.
- 84.5% routinely ask patients about risk factors for HIV infection.
- 39.4% have cared for an HIV-positive patient.
Takeaway
Most doctors who deliver babies are now testing pregnant women for HIV, but they don't often help those who test positive.
Methodology
A telephone survey of practicing obstetricians in the New Orleans area was conducted over a 3-month period.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias in the sample of obstetricians surveyed.
Limitations
The study may not represent obstetricians outside the New Orleans metropolitan area.
Participant Demographics
Approximately 90% were in private practice, with a majority being white and nearly 80% privately insured.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0005
Confidence Interval
95% CI 2.2-25.6
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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