Get Tested!

Posted by Pozziepinoy on 3:20 PM
I am so happy. 

 Because of this blog, almost everyday RITM-Satellite Clinic gets referrals for HIV testing. Because of this blog, people from all walks of life are being lead to this HIV testing site. Because of this blog, people are getting encouraged to take the test in the clinic where the staff are accommodating, non-judgmental and professional.
I understand that taking the test has a baggage attached to it. Like me before, I didn't take it until I already got sick with pneumonia. I was thinking of all the things attached to HIV testing: that people will judge and typecast me as gay, as sexually active and immoral. 

 But we should start thinking rationally, rather than with fear. Nowadays, because of the increasing number of HIV cases in the country, getting tested is a win-win situation. If the result turns out positive, then you have already made the first step towards your treatment. Also, by knowing that you are positive, you know that the virus will stop with you and you are contributing to society by helping stop the spread of the virus. If the result turns out negative, then great. Nothing was lost, right?

 Here are some of the advices that I gave in getting tested:

 1. If alone, don't think anymore and just go to the clinic ASAP. The clinic is open from Monday to Sunday so there's no excuse for you to not to go. Look for Lean and Phil and tell them that Pozziepinoy referred you. They know what to do and they will make you as comfortable as possible in the clinic. The clinic is discreet.

 2. If you are a minor, make sure that you come in with a parent or a guardian or you have a parental consent letter to take the test.

 3. If you want your partner to be tested, accompany him or her or both of you should get tested even if you already had your test. 

 4. Encourage your friends to join you and make it a group activity. 

 5. Treat the test as like having a test for hepatitis, heart disease, diabetes, etc. I encourage that HIV testing should be part of the annual medical check up.

 So what are you waiting for? Now is the time to act. Get tested and start being responsible for your health and for your partner's health.


"WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.
NO PLHIV is alone with his or her struggle with HIV!"

-Pozziepinoy-


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