What Is HIV?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system. When it remains untreated, it can eventually lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

How Do You Get HIV?
Persons can be infected with HIV after contact with an HIV-positive individual’s bodily fluids including blood, semen, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breastmilk. Typically HIV is transmitted through vaginal or anal sex, or through shared needles. Less common ways can be from mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding, or from blood transfusions.

What Should I Do If I Think I Might Have HIV?
The first thing you should do is get an HIV test. You can get HIV Testing at numerous locations on the west side, east side, and central El Paso. You may also want to ask about HIV prevention like free condoms, and low-cost or free PrEP.

What Should I Expect From HIV Testing?

• Rapid HIV testing can be done with results in just 20-30 minutes. This is done with a simple swab of the mouth.

• Standard HIV testing is done by a blood draw, with results available in about 3 days.

• HIV testing and counseling services are provided by caring and knowledgeable healthcare experts with extensive experience in treating patients with HIV. So you can feel confident you’re getting the care you need and deserve.

What Should I Do If I Think I Might Have An STD?
Schedule an appointment for a test and exam right away. There are cures for many sexually transmitted diseases. Knowing your results, and getting treatment (if needed), can help keep you healthy and prevent complications down the road. Here is a list of available STD tests offered by Southwest Viral Med.

What Should I Expect From STD Testing?

• Many STD tests first require a genital exam, which will happen in-office prior to your blood draw or urine test.

• Gonorrhea and Chlamydia can be tested via urine sample. If your test is positive, we can provide treatment options for you and your partner(s).

• We advise that you do not urinate or engage in sexual intercourse for one hour before any urine testing.

• Counseling and testing for STDs are provided by knowledgeable and caring staff who are sensitive to your privacy and healthcare needs.

Which Health Insurance Providers Do You Accept?
Southwest Viral Med accepts all major health insurance carriers, including: Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Cigna, Humana, United Healthcare, and more. Give us a call to discuss your coverage.

How Much Does HIV Testing Cost?
HIV testing is covered under most Medicaid and health insurance plans. If you do not carry insurance, or have a financial hardship, you may be able to get free HIV testing or access it at a low cost. Contact us to discuss your options.

How Much Does PrEP Cost? How Much is PEP?
PrEP is a daily pill that requires a prescription, which can be provided by the clinic at diagnosis. Most insurance companies cover the cost of PrEP for those who are most at-risk. Additionally, if you think you may’ve been exposed to HIV within the past 72 hours, PEP may also be an emergency HIV prevention option. Both PrEP and PEP can be provided for free or at a low cost to patients who are uninsured and qualify. Contact us to learn more.

How Much Do STD Tests Cost?
Some STD testing and treatment services may be covered by your insurance. Call us at Southwest Viral Med to discuss your plan. Additionally, if you choose to use your insurance, please be sure to bring in your insurance information at the time of your visit.

Can I Get STD Testing Without Insurance?
We offer free and low-cost STD testing to those who qualify. Please contact Southwest Viral Med for STD services pricing information.

Can I Get A Free HPV Vaccine?
Patients ages 19 and older who have no health insurance and meet financial criteria may qualify for the Merck Vaccine Patient Assistance Program to receive the HPV vaccine (Gardasil) at no charge. Other fees may apply.