HIV testing is now recommended for everyone ages 13 to 65 and for all pregnant women as a routine part of their care. How often you need to be tested depends on your specific risk factors.
Testing is widely available through primary care providers, obstetricians and gynecologists, and STD/HIV testing centers. The HIV Program also offers testing at sites in clinics and in the community.
What happens when you come in for a test?
You will be given a rapid HIV screening test that will provide you with results in 20 to 30 minutes. The test is confidential. If there is a reactive result to this test, a follow-up blood test will be done to confirm the presence of HIV antibodies.
What happens if you get a positive on the confirmatory test?
You will be referred into HIV medical care at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Clinics, or another provider, depending on where you live and what you prefer. Being diagnosed early in HIV disease and getting into proper healthcare will support a longer and healthier life for you!