HIV Testing
HIV is a viral infection that, if left untreated, can harm the immune system. HIV is transmitted chiefly via sexual activity, accounting for nearly 90% of all new cases, but it can also be transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, sharing needles, or needlestick injuries. Less commonly, HIV can be transmitted perinatally (at birth) if appropriate medications are not provided.
Fortunately, there are very effective medications to control HIV if you are HIV-positive or to prevent HIV infection if you are HIV-negative.
HIV-positive people who regularly take their medications can maintain an undetectable viral load, which means there is so little virus in their body that it cannot be detected on laboratory tests. People with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to their sexual partners.
The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 be tested for HIV at least once as part of their routine healthcare.
HIV Testing at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center has several convenient ways to access HIV testing.
Testing by Appointment with the LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness Center
A blood test to detect HIV is available through the LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness Center. The LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness Center can also provide comprehensive sexually transmitted infections (STI) screening and help you initiate PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis medication) for HIV prevention if you test negative or HIV treatment if you test positive. Results are available within 24 hours.
Testing by Appointment in the Ambulatory Care Center
Your primary care provider in ambulatory care can order an HIV test for you as part of your routine healthcare. Results are available within 24 hours.
If you test positive, we can assist you with starting HIV treatment, and if you test negative, we can start you on PrEP if you would like to use this option to protect yourself and others from HIV infection.
Walk-In Testing at the CareRite Now Locations
A blood test to detect HIV is also conveniently available on a walk-in basis at any CareRite Now location. Results are available within 24 hours.
Rapid HIV Testing
