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HIV Testing Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an HIV test cost?
HIV tests vary by location, however Metropolitan Charities provides HIV testing FREE of charge. 

How old do I have to be in order to receive a test at Metropolitan Charities?
Individuals must be at least 13 years of age in order to receive an HIV test at Metropolitan Charities, Inc.  Parental consent is not required.  Individuals younger than 13 years of age can obtain a blood test from the local health department or other medical clinics.

Will the test hurt?
No.The type of HIV test that Metropolitan Charities uses consists of an oral swab, and does not involve any blood or needles.

How accurate is the HIV test?
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the HIV oral rapid test results to be 99% accurate.

Will Metropolitan Charities, Inc. inform my insurance company or employer that I obtained an HIV test?
No. Metropolitan Charities does not report any test results to insurance companies, employers or any other 3rd party entity. Metropolitan Charities provides confidential testing services. This means that your name and any other identifying information will be handled in a safe and private manner. Testing information is only shared with the Florida Department of Health, as required by law. 

Do I have to provide my name in order to receive an HIV test?
Yes. Metropolitan Charities only conducts confidential testing. This means that you must consent to the test by providing your name and signature. Also, in the case that you received a positive test result, medical care can only be obtained with a positive test result containing a valid name.  Anonymous test sites can be found on the Florida Department of Health website. 

How long will it take to receive my HIV test result?
That depends on the type of test. Metropolitan Charities provides confidential OraSure and OraQuick testing. OraQuick test results can be received in as little as 20 minutes. OraSure tests are sent to the lab, and results are received in approximately 2 weeks.

What is the difference in these two tests?
OraQuick test results can be received in as little as 20 minutes however, if the test result comes back reactive, then it must be followed up with an OraSure test. This test is then sent to the lab for further testing, and the confirmed result is received in approximately 2 weeks. Additionally, the OraSure test is required for individuals seeking documentation regarding proof of their HIV status (e.g. insurance, school, international travel, etc.) and results are available in 2 weeks.

I had sex without a condom last night, if I take an HIV test today will I be able to know if I contracted HIV from that?
No. The test would not be able to detect any exposure to the HIV virus in that time frame. There is a 3 month window period for the HIV test to detect the HIV virus. However, it is still encouraged that you come in for a test, while in the window period, if you have not been tested within the last year.

What is the window period?
The "window period" is the time it takes for a person who has been infected with HIV to react to the virus by creating HIV antibodies. This is called seroconversion. Although HIV may not be detected by a test during the window period, HIV can be transmitted during that time.  Ninety-seven percent of persons will develop antibodies in the first 3 months following the time of their infection.

 

What will happen if my test result returns positive?
HIV can be managed with proper medical care therefore, Metropolitan Charities, Inc. staff will ensure that you receive referrals to the appropriate medical care and treatment, regardless of whether you have health insurance or not.  Additionally, Metropolitan Charities, Inc. also offers specialized support groups and counseling in-house for individuals who are HIV-positive.  Referrals for other supportive and financial services will also be provided.

Free Confidential HIV Testing

>> Free HIV Testing, No Needles
>> Confidential results in as little as 20 Minutes

	For a list of free test sites in TAMPA, click HERE
	For a list of free test sites in ST. PETE, click HERE