What
does the Health Center offer?
We offer free confidential
testing.
HIV
testing is done by a simple blood test. The blood test detects
antibodies to HIV. This is done by using an ELISA (enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay) test. If the result is positive, then it is
confirmed with a Western Blot test.
The
tests we perform are not
anonymous. The results are kept in your medical record. Confidential HIV
testing is performed by appointment only, and it is available Monday
through Friday. You will need to sign a consent form to allow us to
perform this test. Results are usually available in two weeks. You
must make an appointment to receive your test result in person.
We do not give HIV test results over the phone or internet.
Interested
in being tested? Please
call (410) 516-8270 to schedule an appointment.
Frequently
asked Questions
What
is the difference between confidential and anonymous testing?
With
confidential testing, the health care provider knows your name. The results are
strictly confidential and kept in your medical record. No one else may
have access to your medical record without your permission.
With
anonymous testing, you do not give your name, and your result does not
go into your medical record.
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Where
can I get anonymous testing?
The
Student Health Center does not offer anonymous testing. However, if
you are interested in free anonymous testing, you may contact
Chase
Brexton Health Services
1001
Cathedral Street
Baltimore,
MD, 21201
(410)
837-2050
Mercy
Medical Center
301
St. Paul Place
Baltimore,
MD. 21202
(410)
332-9400
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Does
a negative test result meant that I definitely don't have HIV?
The
HIV antibody test is an excellent test. However, there are
limitations. A negative result does not necessarily mean that you do not have
the HIV infection. It is possible to have a "false-negative"
result. If the test was done early after the exposure, the
result may not be accurate. The reason for this is because the HIV test detects antibodies
to HIV. It takes time for your body to make antibodies in response to
an infection. If you were recently infected with HIV, it may take
weeks before there are enough antibodies in your body. Therefore
a negative result may mean that you do have the HIV infection but have
not developed antibodies yet.
If
you have a negative result but are in a high risk group, it is highly
recommended that you get a repeat HIV test 6 months later.
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Last
updated
11/29/2006
