One question that had not been answered in this area was whether the distance that an individual had to travel to access voluntary counselling and testing made a difference to their attendance. Although the answer may seem to be obvious (that the closer you are to a clinic the more likely you are to attend) evidence is needed to confirm this. Because this is a spatial question, employing geographic technologies is appropriate and useful.
One part of the multi faceted approach to addressing HIV AIDS is to offer voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) to any one wishing to take it. As the name implies, voluntary counselling and testing or VCT is designed to encourage people to come to a clinic and take an HIV test after relevant counselling so that they can learn their HIV status. Those who test positive will be able to learn about the importance of taking steps to prevent passing on the virus and if available, they will be offered antiretroviral drugs that can slow the disease. Those testing negative are encouraged to return for VCT regularly and ways to prevent infection are reinforced.
"This article highlights geographic technologies used in a public health situation, and is an example fo how geography can contribute to another field."
AFRICAN HEALTH
HIV prevalence in central and east Africa.