HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C Screening (blood test)

• One simple blood draw will collect a sample which can be tested for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B & C. POSSE staff members are skilled in phlebotomy to collect the specimen quickly and with little discomfort to the individual being tested.
• For HIV, the CDC recommends everyone from 13 – 64 years old get tested at least once in their lifetime. If you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year or more often depending on your sexual risk factors.
• For Hepatitis C, the CDC recommends everyone who was born between 1945 and 1965 get tested for Hepatitis C. Click here for more information. Other individuals may also benefit from a Hepatitis C test, so please talk to a POSSE staff member if you are interested in being tested for Hepatitis C.

HIV Rapid Test (finger stick)

• This test is not always used for regular testing, but POSSE staff may choose to use it either in place of or in addition to the standard blood test for HIV.

Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Screening

• If you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year or more often depending on your sexual risk factors.
• A simple, painless vaginal swab will be used by the individual to collect an appropriate specimen for testing.
• As needed, rectal and/or pharyngeal swabs will be used by the individual to collect an appropriate specimen for testing. These types of testing are also easy and painless.
Men:
• If you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year or more often depending on your sexual risk factors.
• One small urine sample will be collected by the individual. If you know you want to have this test done, please do not go to the bathroom before you come for testing because you will be asked to provide a urine sample.
• As needed, rectal and/or pharyngeal swabs will be used by the individual to collect an appropriate specimen for testing. These types of testing are also easy and painless.

Results

Results for all tests are available approximately 3 weeks after your testing date. You can call 336-703-3199 to receive your test results on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm. You can also receive a paper copy of your results by coming to the Health Department during regular business hours. You will be required to show a photo ID to receive results in person.

Other HIV/STI Services Available at the Forsyth County Department of Public Health

• The Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic provides confidential examinations, diagnostic testing, and treatment of STDs (syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and others). HIV counseling and testing is also offered to clients who are seen in the STD Clinic. Follow this link for more information.
• The Family Planning clinic offers women and men comprehensive family planning and preventive health services. Services are confidential and available for anyone of child-bearing age, including adolescents. Follow these links for more information:
  • Adult clinic
  • Teen clinic