Using a mathematical model, Paltiel and colleagues took into account the cost of routine HIV testing in consideration with the cost of detection, treatment, transmission and loss of earnings due to death. Ultimately, it was determined that routine HIV screening every five years was a cost effective way to help lower the rate of HIV.
“HIV screening delivers better value than many other diagnostic tests and treatments that physicians use routinely in daily practice, including screening for breast cancer, colorectal cancer, diabetes and hypertension,” said Paltiel.
However, Paltiel cautions that his model only works if once a person is diagnosed with HIV, he or she seeks treatment. "There is no point searching for needles in haystacks if you merely plan to throw them back in," said Paltiel.
Paltiel’s findings led to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations that all Americans between the ages of 13 and 64 be routinely screened for HIV.
