testing
The most commonly used tests for HIV do not look for the virus itself but
rather for the antibodies produced by the body in response to the presence
of HIV. The test is called the HIV Antibody Test. Someone who has been
tested and is found to have these antibodies in their blood is described
as being HIV positive.
People can ring NYAA to talk about their options: tests are available at
different centres throughout the country - usually at GUM clinics but
sometimes through specialist Sexual Health counsellors. It is also possible
for people to travel to other centres , such as Seacroft Hospital in
Leeds, if they would like same day results. GPs can also offer testing but
this is not a confidential route.
A doctor or nurse will take a sample of blood, usually from the arm. They
will send it to a laboratory for the test. It is likely to take at least a
week before you get the result although same day results are available in
some areas. The test and result are confidential if done at a specialist
centre, such as a GUM clinic, but if done through a GP the result will be
entered on to your medical records and may be disclosed to future
employers etc. It is possible to use an alias at a GUM clinic although you
may still be asked to disclose whether or not you have had the test by
some insurers, mortgage companies etc. Pre and post test discussion should
always be available although, in practice this is sometimes inadequate as
not all centres can offer ongoing counselling. Two tests are used - called
the ELISA test and the Western blot - to ensure that the result is an
accurate one.
A positive HIV antibody test is scary news but it's not a death sentence. Many people are alive and well fifteen years or more after testing positive. A positive result is an important medical message that may help you save or extend your life. Whether you took the test or not, sooner or later you would have learned of your HIV status.
If you learn by testing, you have a chance to slow or prevent some of the possible health consequences. Even if you didn't get tested, HIV would present itself at some point as an infection or damage to your immune system. And, if you had waited for HIV disease to present itself, many of your best medical options would already be lost.
There are many organisations that offer support to help people handle the news. The real work, however, is up to you. Given the right attitude and the right information, most people can live for a long, long time. Getting informed and taking charge of your health will help you make the best of your situation.
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| North
Yorkshire GUM Clinics
York Monkgate
GUM Clinic (Appointment
necessary no drop in). You can ring to book an appointment at the
following times: Monday 1.00pm – 5.30pm Tuesday 8.30am - 11.15am Wednesday 1.00pm – 5.30pm Thursday 8.30pm – 2.45pm Friday 9.00am – 11.30am Harrogate Harrogate
District Hospital (Appointment
necessary No drop in Appointments Mixed) Tuesday 1.00pm – 2.45pm 4.30pm – 5.45pm Friday 10.20am – 1.00pm Scarborough Northway
GU Clinic (Appointments
Only) Tuesday 2.00pm – 4.00pm (Men Only) 4.30pm – 6.30pm (Mixed) Friday 10.00am – 12.00 (Female Only) 1.00pm – 3.30pm (Mixed) Northallerton Friarage
Hospital Outpatients Department Monday 5.00pm – 7.00pm Wednesday 9.30am-12.30pm Skipton Airedale
General Hospital Clinic
Times: Friday: 2.30pm – 4.00pm |