Getting Tested!

In 2006, the CDC released new guidelines for HIV testing in the U.S.   These new guidelines now recommend that HIV testing becomes a part of the annual routine medical screening for all adults, adolescents and youth.  These guidelines underline the importance of knowing your status and using prevention methods.  Statistics show that approximately half of all new infections occur in people age 25 and under. 

Getting tested can be scary, and overwhelming.  In the Philadelphia area there are some excellent resources for testing, education and care.  Below we’ll lay out a “typical” testing scenario so you have an idea of what to expect. You will also see a link to LOCAL TESTING sites, and these sites include Penn specific resources as well as downtown community sites. 

Getting a Rapid HIV Test
*please keep in mind this is only meant to be a sketch of a testing session, to provide you with a loose idea of what to expect at your appointment, all testing sites are different, and their office procedures may vary slightly*

• First make an appointment at the site of your choice OR find a site that accommodates “walk-in” hours.
• You will be brought into a private room by the tester and your appointment will begin with a conversation about what brought you in for the appointment, and a risk assessment survey.  This will give the counselor an opportunity to learn a little more about your situation and they will be able to provide the best support and referrals based on this information.  So, please be honest, the information is confidential and will not leave that room.
• While you are talking with the tester/counselor they will begin to set up the test.  If you are receiving an Oral Rapid Test (which is very common in Philadelphia) you will see a small wand, a little smaller than a toothbrush, with a edge on it.  You will be asked to brush that edge around your gums for a short time (30-90 seconds) and then it will be placed into a vile with an activation agent in it. 
• While the test processes, the counselor/tester will continue to discuss your history with you, as well as offer some possible referrals or suggestions for the future.  They might offer condoms or other safer sex supplies or just listen to you as you talk about your concerns and situation.
• Once the test is processes they will give you your results, even if your test is negative the may suggest that you come back for a follow up test in 3-6 months (HIV cannot always be picked up in a test-any test-immediately). 
• Should your test come back positive, the tester will recommend that you get a confirmatory blood test (they will suggest where) and also provide you will options about your next steps.
• It is important to know that all agencies will help you through this difficult process and will provide resources and support as needed and desired. 

Information provided by: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, updated August 3, 2008