The SERAY feasibility study: Needs and barriers to HIV testing and care among women who are migrants, co‐produced with non‐governmental organizations

OBJECTIVES: Women who are migrants represent a substantial proportion of new and late HIV diagnoses in Europe, yet barriers to testing and care remain poorly understood. This feasibility study aimed to identify these women's needs, using a co-produced, non-governmental organization administered survey in three European countries. METHODS: Women from migrant populations were invited to complete an anonymous survey in 2024-2025 regarding migration history, socio-economic circumstances, healthcare access and use, HIV testing history among other issues. Co-produced by 'Women Against Viruses in Europe' under European AIDS Clinical Society with non-governmental organizations in Greece, Italy and Poland, the survey explored demographic, socio-economic and health characteristics in nine languages. Statistical data analysis were descriptive. RESULTS: Eighty-seven women completed the survey; 51 in Greece, 13 in Italy and 23 in Poland. Respondents in Greece and Italy were predominantly from Sub-Saharan Africa and had resided in country for more than 4 years; in Poland, most were from Ukraine and 44% had arrived within the previous 2 years. Despite high reported rates of free healthcare access and recent healthcare use, significant gaps in HIV testing were evident-43% of respondents in Greece had never been tested. Many had not been offered an HIV test during pregnancy before arrival. A third reported a history of violence or substance use. Many reported financial dependents but insufficient income despite high employment rates. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that reported access to free healthcare does not translate into equitable HIV testing or care for women who are migrants in Europe. Structural, financial and social vulnerabilities persist and must be addressed if late diagnosis is to be reduced.