Re-establishing HIV/STI Testing Services Through University Student-Oriented Centers During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic saw the disruption of HIV/STI testing services at crucial student-oriented spaces at the University of Michigan, including the Spectrum Center, an LGBTQ+ event and education space, and Wolverine Wellness, a well-being initiative through the University Health Services, alongside massive disruptions to testing seen elsewhere around the country (Zapata et al., 2022). HIV/STI testing resumed in October during the Fall 2021 semester at the University of Michigan at Wolverine Wellness and Spectrum Center. At the Spectrum Center, the oldest LGBTQ+ college center in the country, I had the unique opportunity to partner with professional and student staff to foster an environment sensitive to cultural needs, including awareness of how sexual and gender identity intersects with student sexual health and well-being. Additionally, at both sites, COVID-19 protocols from the state and university were also established in the new workflow of testing services. The re-introduction of HIV/STI testing services through student-oriented sites at the University of Michigan required a reassessment of work flow standards and engagement with the campus student population.