HIV Prevention

ASA’s Counseling, Testing, and Referral program allows free access to HIV testing services, behavior change counseling, and linkage to needed community resources.  It is designed to assist individuals in evaluating how their behavior may put them at risk for HIV infection and provide a safe, compassionate, and resource-rich space to discuss challenges and successes in reducing their risk. 

The hours for ASA's Prevention Department are as follows:

• Monday: 9:00 - 4:30
• Tuesday: 9:00 - 4:30
• Wednesday: 11:30 - 6:30
• Thursday: 9:00 - 4:30
• Friday: 9:00 - 4:30

ASA provides free HIV testing to about 700 people annually.

During their first visit, clients engage in a 30 to 45 minute session with a Risk Reduction Counselor during which they receive HIV education, an individualized risk assessment, and create their own risk reduction goal.  Depending on client need, the Risk Reduction Counselor can provide information about HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) transmission, ways to lower infection risk from sex and/or drug use, proper condom use and storage, partner notification, community resources, harm reduction and disease management. 

Outreach for testing targets individuals at the highest risk of HIV infection and utilizes methods ranging from fliers to street contact to promoting services on internet sites used for finding sex partners.  Often, these are individuals who have little to no access to health, wellness or medical care.  ASA’s diverse Prevention Team modifies outreach efforts as needed help to best reach current and emerging risk populations.

Getting Tested

HIV testing is done via an oral swab, takes about half an hour, and results are available before the client leaves.  No blood draw is necessary and anonymous testing is available.  Clients receiving a preliminary positive result will be provided with additional confirmatory testing.  In addition to several off-site collaborative testing venues, HIV testing occurs every Wednesday from 1:00 to 7:00 pm at our Cameron Road office. Appointments are suggested, but walk-ins will be seen on a first-come first-served basis and will be screened for eligibility.

Contact

Individuals interested in getting an HIV test at ASA should contact a Prevention Team member at 512-458-2437 to discuss eligibility and to make an appointment.