The New York State Department of Health has marked June 27 as National HIV Testing Day, urging residents to learn their HIV status. The department emphasizes that testing is an important step in connecting individuals to the HIV care continuum and prevention resources.
“HIV testing is a critical first step in HIV prevention and treatment, and it empowers individuals to take charge of their sexual health,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “On National HIV Testing Day, I encourage everyone to take that first step to learn their status and to talk openly with their partners and health care providers.”
HIV self-test kits are available for those who want to know their status privately at home. Free kits may be mailed directly to eligible individuals.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is highlighted as a key preventive medication for those at risk of contracting HIV. The state reports leading the nation in prescribing PrEP among people estimated to benefit from it. Research indicates PrEP is highly effective at preventing sexual transmission of HIV, but usage rates differ among populations within the state. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities, young men who have sex with men, cisgender and transgender women, and people under 40 are less likely than White counterparts to access PrEP despite rising diagnoses in these groups.
The AIDS Institute within the Department continues efforts with community organizations and healthcare providers to promote equitable access to PrEP statewide. Medicaid and most insurance plans cover PrEP-related costs. For uninsured individuals, the Department offers a PrEP Assistance Program covering clinical visits and lab tests.
Testing locations can be found through the AIDS Institute’s Provider Directory or via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s test locator tool.
More information about the AIDS Institute’s work on HIV can be found at health.ny.gov.
