As Guyana prepares to commence its comprehensive Test and Start programme to fast-track the treatment of persons living with HIV/AIDS in Guyana, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, last week travelled to Florida, to participate in the PEPFAR Caribbean Regional Operational Programme Meeting, and articulate Guyana’s commitment to the programme.

A release from the Ministry noted that Minister Cummings in her presentation, emphasized that though the Test and Start programme is an unplanned and unbudgeted activity and the Government of Guyana remains unremittingly committed to starting its programme by October 1, 2016.

Guyana will be benefiting from a US$160,000 grant from PEPFAR for Antiretrovirals (ARVs) to support its Test and Start programme. According to the release, Guyana recognizes the intrinsic value of the Test and Start programme which will be tremendously effective in the significant reduction in new HIV infections and the fast-tracking of treatment. These measures are in line with the 90–90–90 goals of the PEPFAR Caribbean Regional Programme, to ensure that by 2018, 80 percent of the people living with HIV/AIDS in Guyana are on the Test and Start Programme.

“Minister Cummings underscored that though Guyana is willing to absorb some of the costs attached the Test and Start programme, it would most graciously welcome support in the one-time funding for ARVs, as well as support with a sustainability plan for finance and costing. She also highlighted that the Government of Guyana intends to establish and robustly maintain the highest level of transparency and accountability in the efficient and effective management of the programme’s funding,” the release stated.

Test and Start is a scientifically proven HIV prevention programme that can fast-tack the treatment of persons living with HIV/AIDS. The 90–90–90 PEPFAR goals speaks to 90 percent of the people living with HIV/AIDS in Guyana knowing their status. Of those persons, 90 percent must be immediately placed on ARVs. Of the 90 percent placed on ARVs, there must be a 90 percent increase in viral load suppression.