The TLC: Testing and Linkage to Care program is required for anyone wishing to provide testing services at a Maryland Department of Health funded entity in Maryland. There are three (3) components of the TLC program.


TLC eLearning Course

A 6 module self-paced eLearning course. This course provides a baseline foundation for learners who may be new to HIV testing or need basic information about testing and linkage to care. Each module contains knowledge checks to assist the learner with their knowledge acquisition. A post test is required to complete the eLearning course and a score of at least 80% is required.


TLC Supplemental Sessions

A series of four (4) supplemental self-guided sessions that cover additional topics of interest to HIV testers in the State of Maryland. These supplemental sessions cover the following topics:

  • Testing Technologies

  • ACTS and Intersections of IPV/DV 

  • Partner Services and Cultural Empathy

  • Managing Client Reactions


Each learner is required to participate in each supplemental session. 


Simulation Assessment

After successfully completing the eLearning course and the four supplemental self-guided sessions a learner must participate in a simulation assessment. The assessment is a one-on-one facilitated assessment where the tester will demonstrate proficiency using fingerstick and/or oral swab tests for a trainer facilitator. Upon completion of the simulation assessment the learner will receive a certificate of completion. 


Alive!Maryland Testing and Linkage to Care

The Testing and Linkage to Care curriculum is composed of a self-paced elearning course and 4 self-paced webinars on HIV testing topics. Learners must complete the self-paced course and all four self-paced webinars to complete the curriculum and enroll in the HIV Testing Skills Assessment. Successful completion of the curriculum and the skills assessment is required to receive an HIV Tester Number in the state of Maryland.

This course is only available for learners/testers who are based in Maryland. If you believe you should be able to access the course and cannot please email eLearning@healthhiv.org.

Testing and Linkage to Care Skills Simulation Assessment

After completing course: Alive!Maryland Testing and Linkage to Care

To complete the TLC course requirements, learners must demonstrate HIV rapid test skills competency. Each learner is required to set up a time to complete a simulated assessment with a trained facilitator.  After successful completion, the learner will receive a certificate of completion.