Knowing your HIV status is a critical step in protecting your health and the health of your partners. At our Houston health center, we offer confidential, accurate and affordable HIV testing to ensure that individuals in our community have access to timely diagnosis and care. If you are concerned about possible exposure or are experiencing symptoms, our team is here to provide judgment-free support and guidance.

Why HIV Testing Is Important

Many people who contract HIV do not experience symptoms immediately, which means the virus can go undetected for months or even years without regular testing. The sooner HIV is diagnosed, the earlier antiretroviral treatment can begin, significantly improving long-term health outcomes and reducing the risk of transmission.

For at-risk individuals in Houston, routine HIV testing is especially important. Regular screening helps ensure early detection, prompt treatment and a reduced risk of passing the virus to others.

Types of HIV Tests Available at Our Houston Health Center

We provide multiple types of HIV testing based on your situation and how recently you may have been exposed.

• Rapid HIV Testing – A quick test that provides results in as little as 20 minutes using a blood sample or oral swab. This test detects HIV antibodies, which the body produces in response to infection.
• Lab Testing – Detects both HIV antibodies and antigens, allowing for earlier detection than antibody-only tests. Results are typically available within a few days.

If a rapid HIV test comes back positive, a confirmatory lab test is required to verify the diagnosis. People whose test comes back negative after suspected exposure should begin PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) as soon as possible to further reduce their risk of contracting HIV.

When Should You Get Tested for HIV?

HIV testing is recommended at least once for everyone, but frequent testing is advised for those at higher risk. You may need an HIV test if you:

• Have had unprotected sex with a partner of unknown HIV status
• Have multiple sexual partners
• Have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Use or share needles for injecting drugs
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Have had a partner who tested positive for HIV
• Have been exposed to HIV through sexual assault or occupational exposure

If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV within the past 72 hours, PEP treatment may help prevent infection. Contact Greenspoint Health Center in Houston as soon as possible by calling (832) 300-8040 or visit us during clinic hours to begin treatment right away.

What to Expect During an HIV Test

Our HIV testing process is simple, private and supportive:

1. Pre-Test Consultation: A healthcare provider will discuss your concerns, risk factors and the type of test that best fits your situation.
2. Sample Collection: Depending on the test, you may need a blood draw, finger prick or oral swab.
3. Results and Next Steps: Rapid test results are available the same day, while lab results typically take a few days. If your rapid test result is positive, we will perform a confirmatory lab test and guide you through your treatment options.

What If You Test Positive for HIV?

A positive HIV diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but treatment options today are highly effective, allowing individuals with HIV to live long, healthy lives. Our Houston health center provides comprehensive follow-up care, including:

• Confirmatory testing to verify the diagnosis
• HIV treatment and care with antiretroviral therapy (ART)
• Support and counseling to help navigate your next steps
• Partner notification assistance to inform others confidentially

Starting treatment early can reduce the HIV viral load to undetectable levels, meaning the virus cannot be transmitted to sexual partners (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).

Affordable and Confidential HIV Testing

• Sliding-scale pricing is available for uninsured patients
• Many insurance options accepted, including Medicaid coverage
• Some patients may be eligible for financial assistance to help reduce costs

No one should avoid getting tested due to financial concerns—our staff can help explore low-cost options for HIV testing and treatment.

HIV Prevention and Risk Reduction

Regular testing is just one part of HIV prevention. If you test negative but remain at risk, we offer:

• PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) – A daily medication that reduces the risk of contracting HIV through sexual contact by up to 99% and by at least 74% for people who inject drugs.
• Safer sex education – Counseling on risk reduction strategies and STI prevention.
• Routine STI screenings – Since some STIs increase HIV risk, regular testing helps maintain overall sexual health.

Why Choose Our Houston Health Center?

• Fast and reliable HIV testing options
• Judgment-free, confidential care
• Comprehensive prevention and treatment services
• Financial assistance for testing and treatment
• A dedicated team focused on your long-term health

Get an HIV Test in Houston Today—Walk-Ins Welcome

Protect yourself and your partners by getting tested at Greenspoint Health Center in Houston. Whether you need routine screening, urgent testing or follow-up care, our team is here to support you. Walk-ins for emergency HIV testing or PEP treatments are welcome during clinic hours, or you can call us at (832) 300-8040 for more information.