The HIV epidemic is driven by sex between an infected individual and a partner who is uninfected. Where the infection status of both partners is not known -- and conservatively nine-tenths of HIV-positive individuals worldwide do not know they are infected -- the only safe options are sex without penetration or sexual intercourse protected by condom use. However, condoms are not without their drawbacks, especially in the context of a stable partnership where pregnancy is desired or where it may be difficult for one partner to suddenly suggest using condoms. For many individuals and couples in Africa, where HIV prevalence rates are high, finding out their infection status could expand their basket of HIV prevention options.

One approach is to make voluntary testing services more convenient to clients. Uganda's AIDS Information Centre (AIC) is a Kampala-based NGO that has served 350,000 clients with confidential counselling and HIV testing since 1990. Since 1997 AIC has provided same-day services. Previously, clients had to wait two weeks to receive their HIV test results, and 25-30% did not return to get them. Research among AICís clients confirms that 85% prefer same-day results and 76% are willing to pay more for the rapid service. On average, clients spend 2 hours at the centre, although the procedure can be completed within 30 minutes.