HIV Testing

I just found out that I got a “preliminary positive” on a rapid HIV test. Do I have HIV?

The rapid test is very accurate. If your test is a preliminary positive, it suggests HIV antibodies were found in your blood, and you are likely to be infected with HIV. Anyone who gets a positive result on a rapid test must have a second test done. This is an even more accurate test, and it is done to confirm or check the results of the rapid test. It takes up to one to two weeks to get the results of this second test.

This test is offered at The Miriam Hospital, 1125 North Main Street, on a walk-in basis every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and at other days and times by appointment.

Testing is provided free for those without insurance. For more information, please call 401-793-2928.

Are there any other things I need to get tested for, such as hepatitis?

It is important for people who test positive for HIV to be tested and/or vaccinated for hepatitis. Testing and vaccinations are provided at many locations across the state. It is also recommended for people who test positive for HIV to be tested for tuberculosis and STDs, such as syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Please ask your health care provider for more information on where to go for hepatitis testing and vaccines or contact. All of these services are offered at:

HIV/Viral Hepatitis Co-infection Clinic at the AIDS/HIV Immunology Center at The Miriam Hospital

1125 North Main Street
Providence, RI 02906
401-793-4020

This material was developed by JSI Research & Training Institute, Inc., and funded by a Centers for Disease Control Prevention grant.