Each test takes about 20 minutes. They are administered by an HIV counselor who provides pre and post-test counselling and access to care, if required. All testing is done by appointment only to ensure private, individualized sessions for our clients.

Worried you might be HIV positive?

We are here to help. Fundación BAI offers free, confidential and rapid diagnostic HIV tests at the BAI Center. We also hold regular free public testing events in collaboration with other institutions and non-profit organizations assisted by a team of trained volunteers.

Common questions about HIV testing

We offer free and confidential testing!

Send us an email or a private message on Facebook to make an appointment.

Why is testing important?

Research shows that one in six individuals who have HIV do not know their status. Early diagnosis is crucial in preventing life-threatening HIV/AIDS-related illnesses and the spread of the disease. Furthermore, if you are HIV+ and pregnant, you can take medications and other precautions such as refraining from breast-feeding to significantly reduce the risk of infecting your child.

Should I get tested?

If your response to any of these questions is "Yes", you should get tested for HIV:

Have you ever shared injection drug needles and syringes?
Have you ever had unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with multiple sex partners, or with men who have sex with men?
Have you ever been diagnosed with, or treated for, hepatitis, tuberculosis (TB) or a sexually transmitted infection such as syphilis?
Have you ever exchanged unprotected sex for drugs or money?
Have you had unprotected sex with someone who would answer yes to any of the above questions?

While it is true that there are certain risky behaviors associated with HIV infection, even people in monogamous relationships should be tested, and should know their partner’s status.

When should I get tested?

We recommend getting tested six months after the last incidence of exposure (i.e., unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, or sharing needles).

How often should I get tested?

If you continue having risky sex or sharing injection drug equipment you should get tested at least once a year. All sexually active people, particularly those who have had multiple sex partners (gay or straight), should get tested, and may benefit from more frequent testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).

What is a rapid diagnostic HIV test?

A rapid test is an immunoassay used for screening the HIV virus resulting in a negative or a reactive result. Rapid tests use blood or saliva to check for HIV antibodies.

At the BAI Center our rapid diagnostic HIV tests require only a small drop of blood from a simple finger prick, and in about 20 minutes you receive your results. If the test results are reactive, we immediately arrange a follow-up test to confirm the positive result.

How much does the test cost?

All of the services Fundación BAI offers, including HIV testing, are completely free.

Do I have to make an appointment?

Yes. To ensure each and every one of our clients a safe, secure and confidential test, we provide our HIV testing services by appointment only.