UToledo Health to Offer Free HIV and Syphilis Testing for National HIV Testing Day

UToledo Health to Offer Free HIV and Syphilis Testing for National HIV Testing Day

In recognition of National HIV Testing Day, UToledo Health will host a clinic offering free and confidential rapid HIV and syphilis testing at the Walgreens at 4580 Monroe St. in Toledo from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24.

The CDC estimates more than 1 million Americans are currently living with HIV, including more than 150,000 who are unaware of their status - a reality that drives UToledo Health HIV Testing and Intake coordinator Danielle Van Fleet to bring free testing directly to the community.

"Regular HIV testing allows for early detection so treatment can begin as soon as possible, while also empowering people to take charge of their sexual health and know their status," Van Fleet said.

According to Van Fleet, there were 41 newly diagnosed HIV cases in the Toledo-Lucas County area last year.

With National HIV Testing Day falling on a Saturday, organizers wanted to hold the clinic earlier in the week to allow for more opportunities for walk in testing. Tests will be administered by medical professionals from the UToledo Health Care Clinic in a private area of the pharmacy via a finger prick. No appointment is necessary. Syphilis results are available in approximately 10 minutes and HIV results in about 20 minutes.

In addition to testing, UToledo Health Care Clinic representatives will be available to discuss community resources for people living with HIV, as well as HIV prevention options and services that can help individuals better understand and reduce their risk.

The UToledo Health Care Clinic provides comprehensive HIV care through the Ryan White Program and offers education, prevention and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.