The Enduring Importance of National HIV Testing Day

HIV is still a threat. Every year in the U.S., tens of thousands of people acquire the virus. And the only way HIV becomes a manageable disease is to find out you have it — and get treatment if you do.

 

Many people today mistakenly believe HIV/AIDS is no longer a concern. This misconception arises from the reduced visibility of the epidemic in media, successful prevention measure such as PEP and PrEP (daily oral and bimonthly long-lasting injectable), and the substantial progress made in medical treatments that allow those with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

However, HIV/AIDS remains a significant global health issue, with new infections occurring daily and many individuals unaware of their status. This ongoing challenge underscores the importance of National HIV Testing Day, observed annually on June 27.

Initiated in 1995 by the National Association of People with AIDS, this day serves as a critical reminder that knowing your HIV status is a crucial step in managing and preventing the spread of the virus. The day is marked by efforts from health care providers, community organizations, and public health entities — like DAP Health throughout Southern California — to make testing more accessible and to educate the public about the benefits of early detection.

 

Why Get Tested

There are several compelling reasons to get tested for HIV, whether it’s your first time or a routine checkup. First, early detection of HIV can significantly improve health outcomes. Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, preventing the progression to AIDS and allowing individuals to lead normal lives. Early treatment also reduces the likelihood of transmitting the virus to others, as those with an undetectable viral load have effectively no risk of sexually transmitting HIV to HIV-negative partners. Undetectable = Untransmittable. Or U = U.

Secondly, knowing your HIV status is empowering, as it enables you to make informed decisions about your health and take proactive measures. For those who test negative, it’s an opportunity to reinforce protective behaviors and consider preventive options such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that not only significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV, but that comes in a daily oral pill or a bimonthly, long-lasting injectable form.

HIV does not discriminate, and everyone who is sexually active should consider regular testing as part of their routine health care.

 

Reducing Stigma

National HIV Testing Day helps combat stigma by normalizing the conversation about HIV and encouraging a collective responsibility toward ending the epidemic.

At each of DAP Health’s three sexual wellness clinics (in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Indio), patients are guaranteed a stigma-and-shame-free experience when it comes to getting tested for HIV. If a patient receives a positive diagnosis, options for treatment are immediately discussed with them. And if they’re negative, there are PrEP navigators at the ready to discuss every HIV prevention option.

This year, in an effort to reduce societal stigma, DAP Health is encouraging people who choose to get tested to do so with a platonic friend or sexual partner. This buddy system is a form of support that doubles the impact of National HIV Testing Day.

 

How to Get a Free HIV Test at DAP Health

There are two ways to get an HIV test at no cost at DAP Health. The first is to visit one of our three sexual wellness clinics (in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Indio). The other is to request that an HIV self-test be discreetly mailed to your home.

Knowing one’s HIV status is still crucial. It is a step toward protecting one’s health and the health of others, contributing to the broader goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

Get tested with DAP Health on, before, or after National HIV Testing Day (June 27). And regularly thereafter. Protect yourself, protect others, and play a part in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

 

Free Rapid HIV Testing at Walgreens Locations on June 27

Please note that DAP Health staff members will be offering free rapid HIV tests (blood draw; results in 20 minutes) at the six Walgreens locations below, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 27. No appointment necessary.

 

1700 East Vista Chino, Palm Springs, CA 92262

2465 East Palm Canyon Drive, Bldg. 14, Palm Springs, 92264

33975 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City, CA 92234

72027 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

82955 Avenue 48, Bldg. B, Indio, CA 92201

8917 Trautwein Road, Riverside, CA 92508