HIV Testing and Counseling

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.

The Window Period:

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 you to determine their risk during the previous three months, and may recommend return for retesting to close the window period.

Testing Methods:

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, but most use oral collection.  The FDA has approved Rapid Testing that utilizes an oral specimen, collected by rubbing the collection device against gums in between the teeth and cheek. Unlike other HIV testing methods, the rapid test can be read in as little as 20 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 three months 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:

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Friday 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm  
(Ages 18-24 Only)

North Park Family Health Center
3544 30th St,  
San Diego, Ca 92104  
Monday – Friday  
9:00 am – 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm  
619-515-2587

TNC2
3544 30th St,  
San Diego, Ca 92104  
Tuesdays & Thursday's 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Rapid and Early Tests offered as well as STD testing
It is encouraged to make an appointment for STD testing but not required
(619) 515-2449 (specializing in Gay Men & Transgender persons)

Beach Area Family Health Centers
3705 Mission Blvd.  
San Diego, Ca 92109    
Thursday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Downtown Family Health Centers
1145 Broadway  
San Diego, Ca 92101  
Monday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Logan Heights Family Health Centers
1809 National Avenue   
San Diego, Ca 92113  
Monday and Wednesday 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Chula Vista Family Health Centers
251 Landis Avenue,  
Chula Vista, Ca 91910  
Friday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

San Diego County, Health & Human Services Agency
HIV Rapid testing available  
3851 Rosecrans St.
San Diego, Ca 92102  
Monday - Wednesday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm 
Thursday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 
(619) 692-8550

and

5202 University Avenue
San Diego, CA 92105
Tuesdays 1:00 pm - 7:30 pm 
Fridays 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Free anonymous and confiedential rapid HIV testing available.  A $15.00 fee covers testing and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), Hepatitis vaccinations for at-risk clients, lab work, in-stock medications and follow-up visits within 30 days of exam. The fee may be waived if you are unable to pay. No appointment necessary. 

Central Region Public Health Center
HIV Rapid testing available  
5202 University St. 
Friday 10 am - 4:00 pm 
(619) 296-2120

The Center – San Diego LGBT Community Center
HIV Rapid Testing Available 
3909 Center St
San Diego, CA 92103
619-692-2077
Monday & Wednesday: Anonymous & Confidential HIV Testing 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

 

 
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