Free HIV Testing in DC: Striving Towards AIDS-Free World

The US government’s theme this World AIDS Day, which was observed on December 1, was “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV.” The theme emphasized “accountability and action.” It implied the dedication to end HIV epidemic across the world by removing the stigma and discrimination that patients face and by ensuring that the patients get access to HIV treatment.

In this context, it is important to mention that free HIV testing in DC is available at your nearest urgent care clinic. This is a golden opportunity to ensure your sexual health. Visit the clinic and ask for a test. No appointment is required. Nor do you need to provide a doctor’s prescription. In addition, you can request the staff to keep your identity confidential. This eliminates any embarrassment that you may feel while visiting the clinic for a test.

CDC’s efforts towards ending the HIV epidemic

It all started in 1980-81 when the HIV epidemic broke out. Since then, a lot has changed, to be precise, improved. Yet, there are miles to go before the HIV epidemic can be said to have come to an end.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) receives support from US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and it works with health ministries, civil society, private health sector, faith-based bodies, and other partners to fuel up further research on HIV infections to create better treatments and preventative measures.

One of the most important steps to take is to remove the stigma attached to HIV and AIDS. Most of the people hesitate to talk about this infection for the fear of what people will say or think about them. This is one of the major reasons people avoid visiting even their nearest urgent care clinic for HIV testing in Washington DC.

As Surbhi Modi, (MD, MPH), Acting Director of Division of Global HIV & TB, CDC, quotes:

“At CDC, we remain deeply committed to addressing stigma, discrimination, and other barriers that slow progress in the HIV response and leave us unprepared to address other public health threats.” (source: CDC website).

Silver lining in the dark cloud

Although the stigma is still there, not all is bad when it comes to HIV and AIDS. Since the first World AIDS Day was commemorated 34 years ago, research and development and innovations in the treatment, care, and prevention of HIV help innumerable HIV+ patients live a healthier and quality life.

Studies have revealed that patients on sustained HIV treatment are able to achieve and maintain suppressed viral load, which is regarded as non-infectious stage. This has given HIV patients a strong hope to lead a happier life.

But it all starts with one small step of visiting your nearest clinic for HIV test. While governments and health organizations are striving to eliminate the stigma attached to HIV, people, too, must come forward and break the chains of social stigma that hold them back in ensuring their sexual health.

Free HIV testing in DC is available. Visit today and take charge of your health.