What is National HIV Testing Day?
National HIV Testing Day has been observed on June 27 since 1995. Led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the day encourages people to get tested, know their status, and connect to care or prevention. The message is meant for everyone, not just people who feel they are at higher risk. HIV does not discriminate by age, gender, income, or background, and neither do we.
Why getting tested matters
The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care, and more often for people with certain ongoing risk factors. Testing matters because HIV often causes no symptoms for years. Many people who are living with HIV do not know it, which means they cannot get the treatment that protects their health and prevents passing the virus to others.
Good to know: U=U When someone living with HIV takes treatment as prescribed and reaches an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass HIV to partners through sex. This is known as Undetectable = Untransmittable, or U=U. Early testing is the first step toward that outcome. |
A test result gives you options. If your result is negative, you can learn about staying that way, including prevention medicine such as PrEP and PEP. If your result is reactive, our team helps you take the next steps calmly and confidentially.
HIV in Florida: why local testing matters
Florida has long reported some of the highest numbers of new HIV diagnoses in the country, according to data tracked by the Florida Department of Health and the CDC. Behind those numbers are everyday people: workers, students, parents, and neighbors. Many never expected HIV to be part of their story, which is exactly why routine testing is so important. The good news is that more testing, earlier treatment, and modern prevention are helping communities turn the tide.
Because our clinics are spread across the state, from Miami and Hialeah in the south to Tallahassee and Milton in the panhandle, free testing is within reach for a lot of Floridians who might otherwise go without. Cost and distance should never stand between you and your health.
Who should think about testing more often
Anyone can benefit from knowing their status. Some people may choose to test more often, such as once or twice a year, based on their own circumstances. You might consider more frequent testing if you:
- Have a new partner or more than one partner.
- Have a partner whose status you do not know.
- Have had a condom break or sex without a condom that you are unsure about.
- Share or have shared needles or other injection equipment.
- Are taking or thinking about taking PrEP, which includes regular testing as part of care.
There is no judgment here, only support. If you are not sure how often you should test, our providers are happy to talk it through with you.
Free HIV testing at DUG clinics this June 27
For National HIV Testing Day, DUG is offering free, confidential HIV testing at all seven of our Florida locations. Testing is fast, results are often available the same day, no insurance is required, and walk-ins are welcome. You can also book an appointment online if you prefer to reserve a time.
You can get tested at any of our clinics:
- Miami (6209 NW 18th Ave, Miami, FL 33147)
- Hialeah (2150 W 76th Street, Suite 100, Hialeah, FL 33016)
- Miami Springs (5245 NW 36th Street, Suite 5257, Miami Springs, FL 33166)
- Dania Beach (323 S Federal Hwy, Suite 329, Dania Beach, FL 33004)
- Orlando (3300 W Colonial Dr, Suite 143, Orlando, FL 32808)
- Tallahassee (2650 Municipal Way, Tallahassee, FL 32304)
- Milton (6044 Doctors Park, Milton, FL 32570)
Not sure which location is closest? Use our Find a Clinic page to see addresses, hours, and directions.
What to expect at your visit
We have designed the experience to feel calm and private from the moment you arrive. Here is what a typical visit looks like:
- Check in. Friendly staff greet you. Spanish-language support is available at our South Florida clinics.
- Quick conversation. A provider answers your questions and explains the test in plain language.
- The test. A rapid HIV test usually uses a small finger-stick sample. It takes only a few minutes.
- Your results. Rapid results are often ready the same day, with caring guidance on what they mean and what comes next.
What happens after your results
If your result is negative, our team can talk with you about how to stay HIV-negative, including prevention medicine and regular testing. Timing matters with HIV tests, so if you had a recent possible exposure, we can also explain the testing window and when to come back.
If your result is reactive, that does not mean a confirmed diagnosis on its own. We arrange a follow-up confirmatory test and connect you to treatment right away. With today’s medicine, people living with HIV can live long, full, healthy lives. You will not face this alone, and everything stays confidential.
Your privacy is protected
We know privacy is often the biggest worry. At DUG, your visit and your results are confidential. Our staff are trained to be discreet and respectful, and we will never make you feel judged for taking care of your health. You can ask any question you have, and you decide what happens next. For more on how we protect you, see our confidential care approach across all of our services.
Testing is for everyone
HIV testing is a normal part of taking care of yourself, like checking your blood pressure or getting a flu shot. We welcome people of every background, partners of any gender, and anyone who wants peace of mind. There is no shame in getting tested. The only thing testing tells you is information you deserve to have.
And while June 27 is a meaningful day to come in, testing at DUG is available all year. If the date does not work for you, any day is the right day to know your status.
Get tested this June 27
You do not need insurance, an appointment, or a reason. Walk in to any DUG clinic on National HIV Testing Day, or book a free HIV test online. You can also call us at (877) 384-6337. Learn more about all of our testing services on our HIV and STD testing page.
Take the next step Free, confidential HIV testing. No insurance required. Walk-ins welcome. |
References
Sources are limited to government and nonprofit health authorities. Open external links in a new tab.
- CDC: HIV. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- National HIV Testing Day. HIV.gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- HIV and AIDS Section. Florida Department of Health.
Medical disclaimer This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed clinician for personal health concerns. |