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The rapid HIV test at the HIV treatment center

What and why

The rapid HIV test is a validated test that indicates whether there are antibodies against HIV in the blood. A positive test means that the virus is found in the blood. If the test is negative, there is no virus present. You can do the rapid HIV test if you have run the risk of infection 6 weeks ago or longer. If the test is negative, there is no virus present. A moment of risk can be a sexual risk (unprotected sex) or a prick incident. The HIV treatment centre Amsterdam uses the HIV combo test (4th generation). The test is done anonymously. When making an appointment you only need a first name and telephone number. Upon request, you will receive the results on paper.

Before the test

Prior to the test, the nurse will ask some questions to determine the type of risk. He or she will also answer any questions.

For the test

The test consists of pricking your finger. The blood is collected in a capillary tube and tested. It will take approximately 20 minutes to get the results.

After the test

After the blood draw, you can take a seat in the waiting room to wait for the result.

The results

A negative test means that you have not come into contact with HIV. There need be no additional testing. If the result is positive, there is always a second blood draw to rule out mistakes. The second blood draw takes place (anonymously) in the lab. It takes a week for the results to come back.

Duration of the test

The entire test, with initial and follow up consultation takes about a half hour all together.

Costs

The rapid HIV test is free.