3 Reasons People Avoid a HIV Test

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 1 in 7 people living with HIV don’t know they are infected. People who don’t get tested for HIV are putting others at risk and delaying their own treatment. So why don’t people make a HIV test part of their regular health routine?

These are three reasons we hear at Palmetto Community Care:

• “I’d rather not know.” We completely understand that a HIV diagnosis is upsetting but choosing to avoid getting a HIV test puts you and others at risk. You may be unknowingly infecting sexual partners or even medical workers who could be exposed via blood. Women who are pregnant can pass the disease to their children. Plus, people who are diagnosed early are more likely to respond well to treatment and live a healthy life. Don’t let fear keep you from taking a HIV test.
• “It’s not important like an eye exam, annual physical or a trip to the dentist.” But if you are sexually active or having unprotected sex it should be something you work into your regular health routine. Make it a priority – as important as a teeth cleaning.
• “I’m in a committed relationship so there’s no need.” Unfortunately, you may not know what your partner is doing when you’re not around. Partner testing is a great idea. Go together and get the test. If your spouse or partner doesn’t want to get the test that could be a red flag that there’s a problem.

Anyone who is sexually active or has engaged in intravenous drug use is at risk. Take charge of your own health and get a HIV test.

Here at Palmetto Community Care we offer free, confidential HIV/STD testing at our Truesdale Office and limited testing at our Agency office. HIV results can be delivered in 20 minutes. Testing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. Appointment required. Contact us at 8434904229 (text) and 8032165108 (call or text) to book.