Aids testing at Health Dept what is 2 be expected – are other things tested 4 as well?

March 62010


Is it a blood test or swab..i wasnt given much info when i attempted speaking with them over the phone and was hoping to get more insight on what to expect. Thanks!

They more than likely will take a blood sample since this is cheaper to do and the Health Department often provides free or low-cost care. However, you may get lucky and have an oral swab taken from inside your cheek. Both methods are effective. The blood draw will only cause a little pinch of pain and then it is over.

They probably will not test for anything else unless you request it. I would request full STD testing if you are concerned about having HIV just to make sure everything else is okay.


2 Responses

  1. gardenzebra Says:

    They more than likely will take a blood sample since this is cheaper to do and the Health Department often provides free or low-cost care. However, you may get lucky and have an oral swab taken from inside your cheek. Both methods are effective. The blood draw will only cause a little pinch of pain and then it is over.
    They probably will not test for anything else unless you request it. I would request full STD testing if you are concerned about having HIV just to make sure everything else is okay.
    References :

  2. flowerman Says:

    We do blood draws at our clinic. The medical director feels it more accurate and if there is a preliminary positive, there is still enough blood to send out to our lab.
    References :
    HIV Educator/Trainer

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