Getting tested for HIV has long been an important part of health care, and now a new NY State Public Health Law encourages everyone to consider testing for the virus.

Members of the Cornell community can get tested at Gannett, or elsewhere in the community. HIV tests vary in terms of sample collection, cost, turn-around time for results, and degree of confidentiality. Consider what works best for you.

When to seek HIV testing
Benefits of testing
Confidential test options
Anonymous test options
Waiting for test results

The following are known risk factors for HIV infection. If you or any sex or needle-sharing partners answer "yes" to any of these questions, you should consider testing for HIV.

• Have you had unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex (e.g., intercourse without a condom, giving oral sex without a latex barrier)? 
• Have you shared needles to inject drugs or steroids or to pierce your skin?
• Have you had a blood transfusion or received blood products before April, 1985?
• Have you had unprotected intercourse with anyone who has done any of the above?

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People often seek tests for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) before starting a new relationship. Since many such infections are often present without apparent symptoms, negative tests can be reassuring. It is of course, also important to have frank and honest conversations with a prospective partner so that both people can make accurate assessments of the degree and timing of past risks. Remember that correct and consistent use of latex or polyurethane condoms (with adequate lubrication) usually protects against many— though not all—STIs.

Anyone who is concerned about possible past risks of exposure to HIV can talk with a sexual health counselor at Gannett who can help assess risks and provide detailed information about testing options. Such a consultation does NOT commit you to being tested; but it can help you figure out when and whether you might benefit from a test. Students, staff or faculty can make an appointment to talk to Gannett's Clinical Counselor by calling (607) 255-5155. (Students can also discuss testing concerns with a clinician during other medical appointments at Gannett.)

Some people avoid testing because of fear that the test might be positive. Most are immensely relieved to discover that they are not infected. Those who do test positive usually find it's better to know: there are now a variety of early treatment options that postpone the onset of illness indefinitely.

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Gannett offers confidential testing only. Many private physicians in the community offer confidential testing as well.

Confidential testing means that your provider keeps your test information in your confidential medical record. With your written authorization test results can be released to meet travel, employment or insurance requirements. Therefore, if you will need documentation of HIV testing for a job, military work or other position, you must get tested confidentially.

HIV Testing at Gannett

Appointments

There are 2 different ways to schedule an HIV test at Gannett:

• Call 607 255-5155 and ask to make a specific appointment for an HIV test. This will require two visits; one to collect the sample (see options, below) and another to receive the test results.
  

• If you need to come to Gannett for another medical appointment, you can ask that an HIV test be included at the time of that visit. NOTE: Time for testing needs to be allotted in advanced, so be sure to alert the scheduler that you want the test during your appointment. Then, you will need to schedule a return appointment to get your results.

Cost

HIV testing at Gannett is free to individuals covered by the Cornell Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). For those with alternate insurance, there is a nominal charge  (ask at the time you make your appointment). This can be paid out-of-pocket at the time of service or applied to your bursar bill. Financial concerns should never be a barrier to getting the tests you need—so if the cost of  a test poses a financial hardship or obstacle, you may wish to consider a free HIV test option in the community (see list below) or talk with one of our Patient Advocates.

Test sample options

• Blood testing: One vial of blood will be drawn from the arm (usually about 2 teaspoons) to test for HIV antibodies.
• Oral testing: Antibodies to HIV are drawn from the oral mucosa by swabbing the mouth. No needles or blood is involved. It's accuracy is 99.96%. NOTE: Due to vendor changes beyond our control, Gannett is no longer able to secure oral test kits. Staff members are investigating options for the future.

What happens to the sample?

The sample is sent to a lab for testing. Two different tests may be conducted. The ELISA (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) is a highly sensitive test and is the first test performed on a sample. A negative ELISA performed 3 months after the last possible risk of acquiring HIV is more than 99% reliable. Only when the ELISA is positive is it necessary to follow up with a confirmatory test called the "Western Blot." The Western Blot is a highly specific test which has virtually eliminated the risk of a false positive result.

Testing elsewhere in Ithaca

If your primary care provider is not at Gannett, call and ask about HIV testing.

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Since June 1, 2000, only New York State Health Department sites are permitted to perform anonymous tests. Anonymous testing means that your name is not recorded and no personal identifiers are used. You will be given a code number which is sent to the lab with your test sample. You must present in person to obtain your test result. The only people who learn that you have been tested or find out your test result are those you tell yourself.

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Rapid HIV testing is available at some local test sites (see above). At Gannett and many other providers' offices however, a 1-2 week waiting period is required for the return HIV test results. For some individuals, this wait creates a certain degree of anxiety and tension. If you need emotional support while you wait, there are many options:

• talk to a trusted friend or family member
• call the person who counseled you about the test
• call Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) (255-5208), if you are a student
• call EARS (255-3277), if you are a student
• call Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (800- 327-2255 [select option #1] ) if you are staff or faculty

It is important that, until you return for your result, you consider the possibility that you could transmit the virus. In other words, don't have unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, or oral), or otherwise expose others to your body fluids until you are aware of your HIV status.

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