HIV test near me
in Dickson, TN

Who should get tested for HIVs?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. However, those with certain risk factors should get tested more often. This includes people who have had unprotected sex, have had multiple sexual partners, have used intravenous drugs, or have been diagnosed with, or treated for, another sexually transmitted disease (STD), hepatitis, or tuberculosis. It's also recommended for people who have had sex with someone who meets any of these criteria, or whose sexual history is unknown.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for HIV is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows for early detection, which can lead to early treatment. According to the CDC, early treatment can help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives, and greatly reduces the chances of transmitting the virus to others. Second, knowing your HIV status can help you make informed decisions about your health, including taking steps to protect your partner(s). Lastly, getting tested helps to combat the stigma and misinformation associated with HIV and AIDS.

HIV testing options in Dickson, TN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are convenient options for HIV testing. They typically offer same-day appointments, and you don't need to have a primary care provider or insurance to get tested. In Dickson, TN, you can book an appointment at Ascension Saint Thomas Urgent Care in nearby Franklin, TN, which has a 4.85 rating and is praised for its friendly staff and cleanliness.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for HIV testing. If you have a primary care provider, you can ask them to add HIV testing to your routine health care. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find one in the Dickson, TN area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at many community health centers. These centers often provide other health services, including prevention and treatment for other STDs. The availability of free testing varies by location, so it's best to check with the center beforehand.

At-home testing

At-home HIV testing kits are available for those who prefer to test themselves in the privacy of their own home. These kits can be purchased online or at a pharmacy, and typically involve taking a small sample of blood or saliva and sending it to a lab for testing. Results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of HIVs in Dickson

The prevalence of HIV in Dickson, TN is lower than the national average, but it's important to note that HIV rates can vary widely within a small area, and even within certain populations. It's also worth noting that the rates of other STDs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, are higher in Dickson than in many other parts of the country. This could be due to a number of factors, including lack of access to healthcare, socioeconomic factors, and stigma associated with getting tested.

Risk factors related to HIVs in Dickson

Risk factors for HIV in Dickson are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, intravenous drug use, and being diagnosed with or treated for another STD, hepatitis, or tuberculosis. Other factors that can increase the risk of HIV include socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and stigma associated with getting tested.

Other STDs in Dickson

In addition to HIV, there are several other STDs that are prevalent in Dickson, TN. These include gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like HIV, these STDs can be detected through testing, and many can be treated with medication. It's important to get tested regularly if you're at risk for any of these STDs, as many of them can have serious health consequences if left untreated.