Community-based HIV testing (CBT) happens in a non-clinical setting but under the supervision of medical staff. It is an effective approach to reach people at risk of HIV who have never been tested in the clinic setting. Under the guidance and support from the National STD/AIDs Control Programme, FPA launched the first Community-based testing programme in Colombo in the year 2018. 

To launch CBT in Gampaha, the training was held for the Gampaha district-based Sub Recipients (SR) working under FPA for the Global Fund supported National HIV Prevention programme. The training was held at Hotel Janaki on the 19th & 20th of July with the participation of NSACP Consultants, Dr Sriyakanthi Beneragama, Dr Jayanthi Elvitigala, Dr Sathya Herath, Dr Geethani Samaraweera, Dr Himali Perera and SR staff. The training covered many areas such as Testing services, Counselling, Risk Assessment, Hands-on training on Rapid tests, Quality control measures, etc. The FPA M&E Team conducted the data management session.

With the support of the Gampaha district-based STD Clinics and the 3 Sub Recipient organisations, FPA plans to launch CBT to reach key populations who have never been tested before.