there are many different HIV tests but health care providers most commonly do a western blot which is the standard test here for HIV (looks for HIV antibodies). There is also a P24 test which looks for antigens and can detect an acute or recent infection. There is also a PCR test which is more rarely done - very expensive - and looks for genetic material of the virus. Genotyping, viral load, cd4 counts are also all tests realted to HIV and are usually done after a positive western blot. POC tests are available in Vancouver. Spectrum health clinic is offering POC testing, as is Insite. The test is not available at most clinics as it is not provincially covered at this time. Nominal and non nominal are options that you can test with. Non nominal means your name is not attached to your test, but be aware that if your test is positive, further medical care and testing will require your name.

I was more interested in the types of blood tests that are being done. Are Vancouver clinics doing the Elisa or the Western Blot test?

Hi:

There are two types of testing: 1) nominal and 2) non-nominal. With non-nominal testing, the results are not attached to your medical history, and usually you do not even need to have health coverage.

All results are confidential and delivered only in person. Pre-testing and post-testing counselling should be provided.

To my knowledge, results are available two weeks after testing. While there have been many initiatives to introduce Rapid HIV testing (otherwise known as Point of Care (POC) testing), it is not yet readily available.