Want to test for HIV but too scared to do it?

Posted by Dr. Julian Ng on May 21, 2014 in HIV | 0 comments

Getting a HIV test done can be a really scary affair. We empathize.

We have done as much as we can to reduce the barriers to testing.

1. We are a mandated Anonymous HIV testing centre.

That means you do not need to give as any of your personal information to get a HIV test.

That also means nobody except you knows of your test results even if it is positive.

In fact, nobody even knows you came for a HIV test.

2. When you come to our clinic, just ask for the ‘3 step test’.

This is our code for getting an Anonymous HIV test.

In case there are people in the waiting room and you are concerned that they overhear you asking for a HIV test.

3. We are a GP clinic.

We see everybody including children, office workers, tourists etc.

We see people for all sorts of illnesses from cough, colds, diarrhoea to diabetes and high blood pressure. In fact, we are rather well known for doing mole removals and even IPL treatments.

Nobody knows what you are coming to the clinic for.

4. Get a companion.

We understand that you are still afraid of getting the test done and the potential result and its consequences.

Sometimes you just need a helping hand and a listening ear to help you gather up the courage to test.

If you have a close friend or family member who can accompany you for the test, that would really help.

If not, an organisation right here in Singapore called The Purple Alliance offers a Health Companion Service called Verify.

This is a free and confidential service where a trained nurse will accompany you throughout the testing process. Right from going to the clinic, to getting the test done, to getting and dealing with your results.

Click on the links if you wish to find out more.

We understand you are worried and afraid. Sometimes it is not about what we want to do, but what we have to do.

Get tested for yourself and for everyone around you.

About Dr. Tan
Dr. Tan graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2001. His residency was in the two largest public hospitals in Singapore; Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Singapore General Hospital.

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