Integration of HIV testing and linkage to care by the Baltimore City Health Department.

To the Editor: With an estimated 25% of HIV-infected persons nationwide unaware of their infection status,1 HIV testing and then connection to care is crucial care. In response to the high HIV incidence in Baltimore,2 the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) developed strategies to increase status awareness among HIV-infected individuals who are difficult to reach, including utilizing alternative venue testing (AVT) methods.3,4 This letter describes the outcomes of BCHD's effort to connect into care individuals identified through the enhanced and integrated HIV testing and care linkage program.