Laguna Beach Community Clinic’s Anonymous HIV Testing Program offers two methods of testing for HIV / AIDS.
Which test is best for you?
Both the OraQuick test and the regular EIA lab test look for HIV antibodies in your blood. As you may know, your body’s immune system makes antibodies to HIV if you have been infected.
However, there is still a six-month window in which a person may be infected, be contagious, and could infect you, but they might not yet have antibodies and so they may test negative during that time. This fact is not based upon the accuracy of the test but upon the variables of our bodies; some people’s bodies just respond more quickly than others to the HIV virus.
If you are confident that you are negative, the 20-minute test will appeal to you. It is always great to be reassured that you are doing it right.
If you fear you are positive and need to know, then the 20-minute test may also be for you and it may save your life. The sooner you start treatment, the better the results.
On the other hand, you may prefer regular HIV testing so that when you get your results you know for sure. You might also benefit from a week of introspection and acknowledging the importance of safe sex.
Whichever you prefer, the quick 20-minute test or the longer test — Do It. Take the test!.
Is there anything I can do if I think I have been exposed to HIV?
Yes, but it must be done immediately. It is called nPEP — Non-occupational post exposure prophylaxis.
> Click here for more information about nPEP.
What if my test is positive?
Our HIV counselor will explain your options. We have a great HIV treatment program at the clinic. It is called EIP or Early Intervention Program.
> Click here for more information about EIP.
Fees
The cost for Anonymous testing is $40 for the OraQuick 20-minute test and $10 for the regular one-week test. Unfortunately, we do not have funding to help lower the cost of the 20-minute test.
Testing Schedule
See the Contact page for clinic testing hours. Walk-ins accepted. No appointment is necessary.