Introduction Black men in the Deep South have been disproportionally affected by high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection rates. Conventional clinic-based screening approaches have had limited success in reaching those undiagnosed with HIV or HCV infection. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility and best practices of an integrated HIV and HCV community-based health screening approach. Methods The study used a mixed-methods approach – focus group discussion, individual interviews and surveys - assessing perceptions, perspectives, and HIV and HCV awareness among six communities across Alabama and Mississippi. Data were collected and analyzed in 2014–2017. Results While HIV and HCV knowledge was limited among community members surveyed, the results of this study suggest that a) using an integrated, community-based HIV and HCV testing approach is acceptable and feasible; b) formation of a community advisory board is a key element of successful community mobilization; c) education and training of community members on disease specific topics and overcoming stigma are essential; and d) focus on and inclusion of young community members will be critical for the sustainability of screening efforts. Conclusion Including and engaging communities at risk for HIV and HCV infection in prevention research is a promising strategy to overcome existing barriers of stigma and discrimination. Integration of HIV and HCV testing in universal health screening efforts utilizing a Community Health Advisors model encourages unbiased communication with a focus on overall community health. Community health advisors are recognized as important agents in this effort.

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