Health Education and Health Services provide confidential, rapid HIV testing free to students who make an appointment early. Testing is provided by The Miriam Hospital staff at Downcity Health Services about once per month.
What happens during my test? Appointments take about 30 minutes; you will receive your test result at the conclusion of the visit. Before testing you will be asked to sign a consent form that states you agree to be tested. Each test includes pre-test counseling to assess your HIV risks. All information, including your test result, is confidential and is not released to JWu or to anyone else without your permission. If your test is positive upon confirmatory testing, your name and test result will be reported to the Rhode Island Department of Health. Contact them if you'd like more information about HIV testing and reporting.How does the Rapid Test work? The Miriam Hospital uses the OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV ½ Antibody Test. This test looks for antibodies to HIV in oral fluids or in blood (finger stick) and is over 99% accurate when performed 3 months after your last risk behavior. Positive results on the OraQuick Rapid test are followed up with a confirmatory blood test. We can answer any of your questions about the testing technology before your test or at your appointment.
How do I schedule an appointment? Look for posters and website updates about upcoming clinics. We start scheduling about one week before the clinic. To schedule, call (do not email) Health Education at 401-598-2023; when leaving a message, provide your first name and a phone number.
Local Free HIV Testing The following sites offer free, anonymous or confidential HIV testing in Providence. Call for appointments, directions, and more information. For more referrals to local HIV testing sites not on this list, call the RI HIV/AIDS/STD Hotline at 1-800-726-3010 or consult AIDS Project RI.