|
Where can
I get tested for HIV infection?
Many places provide testing
for HIV infection. Common testing locations include local health
departments, offices of private doctors, hospitals, and sites
specifically set up to provide HIV testing.
It is important to seek
testing at a place that also provides counseling about HIV and
AIDS. Counselors can answer any questions you might have about
risky behavior and ways you can protect yourself and others in
the future. In addition, they can help you understand the meaning
of the test results and describe what AIDS-related resources
are available in the local area.
The CDC National
AIDS Hotline can answer
questions about testing and can refer you to testing sites in
your area. The Hotline numbers are 1-800-342-2437 (English),
1-800-344-7432 (Español), or 1-800-243-7889 (TTY).
Consumer-controlled test
kits (popularly known as "home test kits") were first
licensed in 1997. Although home HIV tests are sometimes advertised
through the Internet, currently only the Home Access test is
approved by the Food and Drug Administration. (The accuracy of
home test kits other than Home Access cannot be verified.) The
Home Access test kit can be found at most local drug stores.
The testing procedure involves pricking your finger with a special
device, placing drops of blood on a specially treated card, then
mailing the card in to be tested at a licensed laboratory. Customers
are given an identification number to use when phoning for the
test results. Callers may speak to a counselor before taking
the test, while waiting for the test result, and when getting
the result. |
