The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system and makes you more susceptible to becoming critically ill if you are exposed to other diseases or illnesses. HIV can develop into AIDS (Acquired immune deficiency Syndrome) if it is left undiagnosed or untreated. AIDS is a dangerous and often life-threatening condition caused by a severely compromised and damaged immune system.
HIV is spread through bodily fluids (excluding saliva, urine, and sweat) and there is no known cure, although treatments are available that can help stop the virus from affecting your life.
Our blood test services are available at an affordable price and appointments can be made quickly and at a time that suits you
We understand that if there is a chance you have been infected with the virus you may be feeling anxious and uncertain. Our staff are experienced and sensitive to your needs and will be happy to answer any questions you might have and give you guidance on next steps. Our fast results mean that you won’t need to worry about your HIV status for longer than necessary, and if your results are positive, you will be able to get treatment quickly.
If you have been exposed to bodily fluids (including blood, semen, vaginal discharge, rectal secretions, and breast milk) through any contact, including sexual intercourse, then you should get tested for HIV.
HIV tests are also recommended or required if:
Knowing your HIV status is important for your own health as well as those around you. It can help you to manage the virus and protect your partner or child from contracting the virus as well.
Most people who contract the HIV Virus experience flu-like symptoms that last up to two weeks and happen within two to six weeks of being infected. Most people dismiss this as regular flu and the virus can often go undetected for years, even while it is doing permanent damage to your immune system.
It is difficult to know if you have HIV unless you have a blood test. If you think there is any chance you may have contracted the virus, then you should get a test.
There are different types of HIV tests available. We prefer to use the more reliable testing method of taking a blood sample and sending it for testing.
During your appointment, a member of our medical team will use a thin needle to take a sample of blood from the vein in your arm. This sample is then sent to the laboratory to be tested and we contact you with the results.
We understand that waiting on results can be a stressful time and we aim to have your results ready within a few days. Results are sent out electronically as soon as they are ready and you will be sent a secure and easy to read PDF. If you would prefer to receive a hard copy of your results you can speak with our reception team or your consultant and request that we post your results to you. All physical results are sent out as first class mail to be with you as soon as possible.
It is recommended that if you have a test immediately after exposure to the virus you have a repeat test one to three months later as sometimes the virus can go undetected for a short period of time. This is known as the window period.
If you receive a negative result, it means you probably do not have HIV (also referred to as being HIV negative). You should still continue to get tested regularly if you are at higher risk of contracting the virus.
If your result is positive, it means you probably have HIV. It is recommended that you take the test again to confirm the result. You will need to speak to a doctor as soon as possible about starting treatment and our team will be happy to advise you on next steps.
Although we are a private healthcare provider, our priority is you and your health. That’s why we are committed to giving you excellent healthcare at affordable prices.
Our HIV blood test costs £78 and this is carried out by our nurse team.
You do not need a referral to book a test but you can book a follow up private GP consultation if you would like to discuss your HIV test results with one of our experienced GPs. (Please note this attracts a separate fee).
Booking your HIV blood test is easy, book online, contact us on [email protected] or call our reception team on 0333 9000 010.
We offer HIV blood tests in so you can conveniently book around your location and schedule.
Although Summerfield Healthcare is a private practice our fees are low cost and structured with you in mind. Initial consultation fees are listed below:
Summerfield Healthcare private medical centres are conveniently located & always administer an outstanding standard of patient care. Read more
Paul Hatton is the Registered CQC Manager for Summerfield Healthcare. He is responsible the governance, overseeing of the clinical aspect and the development of new services.
General Practitioner / Medical Director | Birmingham, Shrewsbury & Wolverhampton
Dr Vivake Roddah is a GP with professional interests in Dermatology, Minor surgery and Occupational Medicine. He completed his GP training in the Oxford Deanery and has had the opportunity of working with patients from many different backgrounds.