HIV Testing
HIV Resources at MetroHealth
If you are living with HIV, MetroHealth is here to help you. Compass Services is a program for people living with HIV/AIDS to support and guide you along the path to wellness.
For more information, contact Jennifer McMillen Smith, LISW-S at 216-778-4051 or jmsmith@metrohealth.org.
Protect Yourself with PrEP
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. If you are taking it as prescribed, PrEP stops HIV from spreading. You can take an oral pill or get an injection. Both forms are effective -- it matters most that you stay consistent. Taking PrEP and getting tested go together to protect you from HIV.
Learn more about obtaining PrEP from a MetroHealth provider
Or call a PrEP Navigator to make an appointment and determine if PrEP is right for you: 216-957-PREP (7737).
PrEP
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is medication that is over 99% effective at preventing HIV before an exposure. It is available in a pill form or an injection.
HIV Testing
What does an HIV test actually test for?
HIV tests look for antibodies, which are cells your body makes to fight infections. If the test finds these antibodies, it means you might have HIV. In that case, your doctor will run another test to find out for sure.
Should I Get Tested?
Every sexually active person should get tested for HIV at least once in their life. Annual HIV testing is recommended if you:
- Have condomless sex (vaginal, oral or anal) with multiple sex partners
- Have condomless sex with someone who is HIV positive or whose HIV status you don't know
- Share needles or syringes
- Exchange sex for money
- Test positivie for hepatitis, tuberculosis or a sexually transmitted disease like syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia
Not having health insurance should not stop someone from getting tested. If someone happens to test positive, resources exist that can help them pay for care.