Tepeyac Launches FREE Rapid HIV Testing for Existing Patients
Tepeyac is excited to announce we are now offering free rapid HIV testing! Our communities often experience barriers that can make it hard to access HIV treatment and care. At Tepeyac, we are working to break these barriers by providing the highest quality care to all.
Who is at risk for HIV?
Anyone can be at risk for HIV, no matter age, race, or gender. However, studies do show Latinos in Colorado are 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with HIV than their White counterparts. Risk is greatly increased for individuals who have unprotected sex or share needles, syringes, and other injection equipment during intravenous drug use. HIV can also be passed during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
What are the benefits of HIV Testing?
Earlier detection can prevent the spread and transmission of HIV as well as progression towards AIDS. Treatment for HIV can help patients become virally undetectable and can continue to lead long, healthy lives. Without treatment, HIV can make a person very sick and even lead to death.
Who is eligible for free rapid HIV testing at Tepeyac?
To receive free testing, you must be an existing patient over the age of 18. If you are not currently a patient, call us at 303.458.5302 to set up a new patient appointment with one of our primary care providers.
How do I schedule an appointment to receive rapid HIV testing at Tepeyac?
To set up an appointment for rapid HIV testing, call 303.458.5302. You can request a nurse-only appointment which typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete, or you can ask to add on a test to your regular provider appointment. If you need transportation assistance, please let us know.
What can I expect during my rapid HIV testing?
To complete a rapid HIV test, we will need to collect a small blood sample. A simple finger prick will occur, and it will take roughly 20-30 minutes to receive results. Afterwards, our team will be there to continue care and connect you to any other resources you may need.
A non-reactive result means you are negative for HIV. A reactive result is NOT necessarily a positive result. It means the test has reacted with something in your blood that could be (but is not necessarily) HIV or antibodies to HIV. We will immediately send you to the lab for a confirmatory test. We will let you know the results of that test via phone within 72 hours. All patients have the right to refuse a confirmatory test.
What other HIV care and treatment options does Tepeyac provide?
At Tepeyac, we have primary care providers who specialize in HIV care and are credentialed by the American Academy of HIV Medicine. Following a positive diagnosis, we will follow up via phone to set up an appointment with one of our HIV specialists and begin care.
Thanks to our integrated care model, we can offer our patients an array of other services alongside their medical care including behavioral health resources, dental care, case management, and support with insurance enrollment applications. Our on-site pharmacy offers dozens of over-the-counter medications, vitamin supplements, and same day prescription fills.
We also have free safer sex kits that include condoms, dental dams, nitrile gloves, and lubricant along with instructions on how to use them. You can simply ask your provider for one during a visit or call us at 303.458.5302 to request one.
How can I protect myself from HIV?
First, get tested. If you have certain risk factors, you may want to get tested more regularly. You can reduce your chances of exposure by properly using condoms or dental dams during sex and not sharing needles, syringes, or other injection equipment if you inject drugs.
If you engage in behavior that increases your chances of getting HIV, ask your primary care provider about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV within the last 3 days, ask your primary care provider about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). We also recommend getting tested regularly for other STIs.