Evaluation summary – Napneung project: strengthening HIV testing and counselling services in Thailand

Thailand’s response to HIV has been recognised for introducing innovative and effective interventions. However, major challenges remain if the country is to achieve its goal of ending HIV by 2030, particularly in terms of testing and counselling. The Napneung project therefore aimed to improve access to high-quality, effective testing, counselling and referral services within the existing health system for at-risk people living in medium-sized cities.
It demonstrated the viability of an integrated HIV testing and counselling model by improving access for key populations and the general population, especially young people, through operational innovations (online/offline appointment booking, self-testing, multiplex tests and urban targeting).
The evaluation highlights positive effects on access to testing, early detection and user engagement, as well as stronger capacities among local partners. While full integration into the national system and political sustainability still need to be consolidated, the findings confirm that the Napneung project is a replicable and useful model for scaling up high-quality testing and counselling services.