When should I get tested?

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Window period: When testing for HIV, keep in mind that most rapid tests are looking for HIV antibodies – not the virus itself. When the body is exposed to a virus such as HIV, the immune system initiates a response to fight the infection. Antibodies are part of the fight and are released into the bloodstream. There is a “window period” that exists between the time an infection enters your body and when your immune system reacts to the infection via an antibody response. The window period for HIV antibodies is 3 months. However, many people may produce HIV antibodies before 3 months upon exposure, though each individual is different. In other words, when getting tested for HIV, think about the last possible exposure you experienced. If this occurrence was within the last 3 months, the test may or may not be accurate, as your body may not have yet produced enough HIV antibodies to be detected by the testing device. Therefore, you should retest 3 months after your last potential exposure. If you engage in any behaviors that potentially expose you to HIV during the window period, it may cause your follow-up testing sessions to be inaccurate.

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What can I expect during a testing session?

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BCAP uses Uni-Gold is an HIV antibody test. It requires only a small collection of blood through a finger prick to detect HIV antibodies. This technology checks for HIV antibodies, not the actual virus. Uni-Gold provides an accurate test result in just 10 minutes. A trained test counselor will prick your finger and collect a blood sample with a small pipette. The blood sample is then transferred to a pad where it is mixed with developing solution. During the testing and counseling session, you will have the opportunity to discuss HIV, get your questions answered, and receive referrals for other services related to your health.

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What about confidentiality and privacy?

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In the testing session, you can decide how you want to be identified while testing: either anonymously or confidentially. Anonymous testing means that you do not need to give your name, address, or other contact information to the counselor. You are assigned a code of letters and numbers, and your test result is identified by this code only. When testing anonymously, you will not be able to receive a copy of your test result. Confidential testing, on the other hand, requires you to provide your name, address, email, and phone number to the counselor. If you are tested through your doctor, the results will be included in your medical record. Agencies providing HIV testing and counseling operate under strict confidentiality laws regarding testing records. No one, including friends, partners, family, employers or insurance companies, can access your records without your permission.

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Where can I get tested?

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BCAP partners with Boulder County Public Health (BCPH) to provide free, anonymous and confidential HIV testing and risk reduction counseling. Walk-ins are always welcome at off-site testing locations and events. (See our drop-in Calendar for dates and locations.) Each session includes a rapid HIV test, information, and support to help you stay healthy. Click on the button below to schedule a free, confidential or anonymous HIV test at BCAP, or visit one of our local partners:
Boulder County AIDS Project 2118 14th Street
Boulder, CO 80302
303.444.6121
Boulder County AIDS Project 515 Kimbark Street, Suite 100
Longmont, CO 80501
303.774.8827
(by request only)
Boulder County Public Health 3450 Broadway
Boulder, CO 80304
303.413.7500
– $38 sliding scale
– anonymous & confidential
Boulder County Public Health 515 Coffman Street
Longmont, CO 80501
303.678.6166
– $38 sliding scale
– anonymous & confidential
Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center 2855 Valmont Rd
Boulder, CO 80301
303.442.5160
– free to teens only
– confidential only
Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center 82 21st Avenue
Longmont, CO 80501
303.442.5160
– free to teens only
– confidential only
Planned Parenthood 2525 Arapahoe Suite C-200
Boulder, CO 80302
303.447.1040
– $74, confidential only

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What testing technology does BCAP use?

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• For rapid HIV testing, BCAP uses the Alere Determine™ HIV-1/2 Ag/Ab Combo test. You can find more information about the Alere testing technology here.
  
• For rapid HCV testing, BCAP uses the OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody test. You can find more information about the OraQuick® testing technology here.

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