Rapid HIV versus Standard HIV Testing


You have two options regarding the time that will pass before you get your test results:

• Rapid testing takes up to an hour to complete; you will get your results at the end of your session

• Standard testing occurs in two 30-minutes sessions: the first session is devoted to risk assessment and testing; the second session, a week later, is devoted to giving results

Rapid testing works well for people who want to know their results immediately, have schedules that do not allow them to come back a week later, or who feel the waiting period is too stressful.Standard testing works well for people who do not have an hour to spare in one sitting or who would like some time to pass before receiving results.

After you receive your result, you can request that another person join you in the session as you and your counselor talk about your result, future steps, referrals, and linkage to other services. AHP counselors can help clients decide whether to have someone else join the session. Your counselor must obtain your formal oral or written consent before the additional person is permitted to join you.