Discuss types of HIV testing and counseling programs available to you with your healthcare provider.

At the HIV Counseling and Testing programs listed below, State Certified Test Counselors provide individual HIV risk assessment, counseling and information, testing for HIV antibodies, and referrals to appropriate support services. Those who test positive receive additional support to access HIV care services, as well as assistance in notifying partners who may be at risk.

After infection, there is a period of up to three months, during which there may not be enough antibodies present for an accurate test. This period is known as the “window period”. During the HIV testing session, the test counselor will help the client to determine their risk during the previous three months, an may recommend that those testing negative return for retesting.

Standard Blood Testing - This test detects the presence of HIV antibodies in a blood specimen collected through venipuncture (extracted from a vein using a syringe). Results may take a week or more, requiring another visit to the testing site.

Rapid Testing - Some of the sites below offer rapid testing. Like most HIV tests, the rapid test detects the presence of HIV antibodies in blood specimens, generally obtained by a fingerstick, most use oral collection.  The FDA has approved Rapid Testing that utilizes an oral specimen, collected by rubbing the collection device against the roof of the mouth. Unlike other HIV testing methods, the rapid test can be read in as little as 25 minutes.   Although the test is very accurate, a positive test result is “preliminary positive” and must be verified through a standard blood or Orasure test.

Early Test - A standard HIV test detects antibodies that the person’s immune system makes to fight HIV after infection and it could take up to six weeks or more for antibodies to develop. On the other hand, The Early Test detects the HIV virus, not the antibodies. The Early Test can detect HIV infection as early as one week after exposure. Although the use of Early Test methods are used to screen the blood supply it is not standard of care for routine HIV testing. The Early Test is being provided as a part of a research study that wants to learn about finding individuals that are in the earliest stages of HIV infection. To be part of this study you need to be 18 or older and give informed consent.

Testing Locations: