We are soliciting presenters for discussion panels at the 2019 HIV Diagnostics Conference. The format is intended to promote in-depth discussion and feedback on a particular topic.  Brief oral presentations will be used to introduce the session topic and stimulate discussion.

DP1. Moving beyond the silos: Identifying and overcoming the challenges of integrating HIV, STIs and HCV testing.

DP2. Improving partnerships between laboratories and testing programs (HIV, STIs and/or HCV). Describe methods to facilitate partnerships, communication and shared goals. 

DP3. Opportunities created by the availability of simplified or automated nucleic acid tests, expanded diagnostics claims for current HIV NATs, or validation of quantitative NATs for diagnostic use. Include lessons learned from programs that have used these tests or HCV NATs. For programs using a dual claim HCV NAT, how has its use improved testing processes and turnaround time?

DP4. Self-testing or self-collection for HIV or STIs. Topics may include applications for screening and linkage to care, treatment, prevention, surveillance and partner testing

Discussion Panel Session Format

Each Discussion Panel Session will consist of 1 to 4 conceptually linked presentations designed to introduce the topic and raise three or fewer open questions followed by a discussion. The session will be 1 hour in duration. Presenters should plan to allot not more than 30 minutes for presentations and the remaining time will be devoted to discussion. Each discussion panel will be moderated by a person chosen by the conference committee.

Discussion Panel Proposal Structure

Submit a Panel Proposal (compilation of presentations) (preferred) or a single presentation proposal to be a panel discussant in one of the four panels.

Title– Provide a title for each individual presentation in the discussion panel.

Discussants – Provide the name of each panel discussant.

Proposal – You will specify if this is a panel proposal (500 words or less) or single presentation proposal to be included in a panel (350 words or less). It may be unstructured but should include:

  • Brief introduction to provide background on the topic being addressed
  • Describe pertinent issues or specific aspects of the discussion panel topic that your presentation will address.
  • Relevant experiences, tools, lessons or models that will be highlighted in your presentation.
  • Data and/or outcomes to accompany the descriptive narrative, where applicable.

Proposed presentations will be reviewed by the conference organizing committee and either accepted, rejected or offered an alternative presentation format.

Discussion Panel Presentation Materials

Presenters of accepted discussion panels are encouraged to create a handout for their presentation and submit it for review by the conference organizing committee. Discussion panel handouts will be included in the program book and can be either an outline document or a mini-poster format. Handouts are intended to support the short presentation and facilitate discussion. Presenters may receive feedback on their handout from the organizing committee. The feedback procedure is meant as an opportunity for improvement, not as a tool to judge the topic being presented (as the proposal has already been accepted). More information about handouts, as well as the deadline for their submission will be sent in the acceptance email.

Ideally, participants should be able to read the handout in one or two minutes and be able to take part in the discussion. To reach this aim, make it clear, structured, concise, and attractive. Avoid long texts and use diagrams, graphs and/or tables to visualize your information effectively when applicable.

Presenters may use PowerPoint slides for their presentation, but should be conscious of the time allotment.