At St. Hope Healthcare, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and confidential HIV testing and diagnosis services to individuals in Jersey Village and the surrounding areas. Early detection and timely diagnosis are crucial for effective management and prevention of HIV, helping individuals lead healthier lives while reducing the spread of the virus within the community.

The Importance of HIV Testing

Regular HIV testing is essential for anyone who is sexually active, shares needles or may have been exposed to the virus. Many people with HIV may not experience symptoms for years, making routine testing the only way to confirm their status. Early detection allows individuals to start treatment sooner, significantly improving health outcomes and reducing the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

Who Should Get Tested for HIV?

• Anyone who has never been tested before
• Individuals with multiple sexual partners
• Those who engage in unprotected sex
• Individuals with an HIV-positive partner
• People who inject drugs and share needles
• Pregnant individuals to prevent mother-to-child transmission
• Healthcare workers and first responders who may be exposed to bodily fluids
• Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms after potential exposure

If you fall into any of these categories, it is important to schedule regular HIV tests to monitor and protect your health.

Types of HIV Tests Available at St. Hope Healthcare

At St. Hope Healthcare, we offer professional HIV testing options to ensure quick, accurate and confidential results.

Rapid HIV Testing

• Provides results within 20-30 minutes
• Uses a finger-prick blood sample or oral swab
• Ideal for individuals who need immediate results

Standard HIV Antibody Test

• Conducted via a blood sample
• Results typically available within a few days
• Detects HIV antibodies, usually effective 2-8 weeks after exposure

All tests at St. Hope Healthcare are completely confidential, and our medical professionals provide supportive counseling and next steps based on your results.

Understanding Your HIV Test Results

Negative Result

If your test result is negative, this means no HIV antibodies or viruses were detected. However, if you were tested within the window period (the time between exposure and when the virus is detectable), we may recommend a follow-up test to confirm your status.

If you do suspect exposure but your test result was negative, your doctor may recommend taking a course of PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) medication.

Positive Result

A positive result means HIV has been detected in your blood. A follow-up test will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. If confirmed, our healthcare team will provide immediate medical support, counseling and treatment options to help you manage the challenges that come with an HIV diagnosis.

What to Do If You Test Positive

Receiving an HIV-positive diagnosis can be overwhelming, but early treatment is key to living a long and healthy life. At St. Hope Healthcare, we provide:

• Comprehensive HIV care and treatment options
• Emotional and mental health support
• Access to PrEP and PEP services to help prevent transmission to partners
• Confidential case management and resources for ongoing support

Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) immediately can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, allowing individuals to maintain a healthy immune system, prevent transmission and enjoy a normal, fulfilling life.

Why Choose St. Hope Healthcare for HIV Testing?

St. Hope Healthcare is committed to providing judgment-free, patient-centered care to individuals in Jersey Village. When you choose our services, you benefit from:

• Confidential and rapid testing options
• Compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare providers
• Affordable testing on a sliding scale (based on income eligibility)
• Easy access to follow-up care, treatment and prevention services

Schedule Your HIV Test Today or Visit Our Jersey Village Health Center During Clinic Hours

Taking control of your health starts with getting tested. Whether you need a routine HIV test, rapid results or post-exposure support, St. Hope Healthcare is here to help.

Visit our Northwest Health Center during clinic hours or call (832) 365-3380 today to schedule an appointment for confidential HIV testing and diagnosis in Jersey Village.