Frequently Asked Questions

What is an HIV Test?
HIV is diagnosed by testing serum (blood or oral fluid) for antibodies to HIV. The body’s immune system produces these antibodies when infected with HIV. The results of the test will determine if an individual is HIV positive or negative.

How long does it take to get my results back?
Life Foundation now offers Rapid HIV Testing, and results are available in approximately 20 minutes.

What do my results mean?
There are three types of results you could possibly receive from a HIV test:

- A Positive Result: This means you have been infected with HIV and are HIV positive.

- A Negative Result: A negative result means that the test did not detect any HIV antibodies. However, this does not mean you are immune to HIV. It can take up to three months from the time of possible exposure for your body to develop the antibodies to HIV.

- An Indeterminate Result: This means that the HIV test cannot determine definitely if you have HIV antibodies or not. If your test result is indeterminate, it is recommended that you get re-tested in a few weeks.

Is it confidential and anonymous ?
All HIV testing sessions are confidential, meaning that the information exchanged between the client and the Life Foundation Prevention Specialist will not be shared with anyone else. Life Foundation only offers anonymous HIV testing. We do not provide official written documentation of your results.

My location and schedule makes it difficult to come into Life Foundation's office. Does Life Foundation administer HIV tests outside the office?
We do provide HIV testing in other locations besides Life Foundation's office. Please call 521-2437 and ask to speak with someone in the Prevention Department to schedule a HIV test in your home, or a public place where you feel comfortable.

If I think I have been exposed to HIV, how soon can I be tested ?
The tests commonly used to detect HIV look for antibodies produced by your body to fight HIV. Most people will develop detectible antibodies within 3 months after infection, the average being 20 days. In rare cases, it can take 6-12 months. During this time between exposure and the test, it is important to avoid any behavior that my spread HIV to others, such as unprotected sex and sharing injection drug equipment.

What if I test positive for HIV ?
There are many options for individuals who test positive for HIV. With the recent advancement in medical treatment, many individuals can live a long, healthy, and productive life while being HIV positive. Immediate medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well, as there are now many drugs that treat HIV infection and AIDS related illnesses. Prompt medical care may help delay the onset of AIDS and prevent some life-threatening conditions. Life Foundation will assist you in finding proper medical and emotional support.