STBBI Testing Options
The APPROACH Study is a research study looking at ways to provide STBBI testing in community pharmacies. APPROACH study participants are offered a choice of screening tests for HIV, hepatitis C and/or syphilis.
HIV Rapid Test
Infections it can detect: HIV
Blood collection: A few drops from a finger stick
When are results available: 2 minutes (during testing visit)
Hepatitis C Rapid Test
Infections it can detect: Hepatitis C
Blood collection: A few drops from a finger stick
When are results available: 20 minutes (during testing visit)
Dried Blood Spot Test
Infections it can detect: All three infections: HIV, hepatitis C, syphilis in just one test
Blood collection: A few drops from a finger stick
When are results available: 2-4 weeks (pharmacist will contact you to give you your results)
Here’s how it works
Testing involves collecting a few drops of blood. This is done with a finger prick, like how someone with diabetes would check their blood sugar.
The pharmacist will make sure your fingers and the testing area are clean before doing the finger prick.
Your blood will be put into the rapid test device or onto special paper, depending on the test.
The pharmacist will tell you the results of the rapid test(s) (HIV, hepatitis C) at the same visit. They will call you when your results for the dry blood spot test are available (2-4 weeks).
If you have a reactive (or positive) screening test result at the pharmacy, the pharmacist will connect you with lab testing to confirm the result and a doctor who will provide any care or treatment that is needed.
How to get tested
The pharmacy appointment should take 30-45 minutes and involve the following:
Tell someone at the pharmacy counter that you want an HIV, hepatitis C, and/or syphilis test or give them a note that says this. Or simply say “I am interested in the APPROACH study”. Some pharmacies offer testing when you want it and some will ask you to book an appointment.
The pharmacist will bring you to a private room. This is where testing will happen.
The pharmacist will explain the study and testing process and answer your questions. If you want to continue, you will be asked to sign a consent form to participate in the research.
You will be asked to complete two questionnaires, one before testing and one after. These questionnaires do not ask for your name or other information that someone could use to identify you. The pharmacist will not see your answers. Researchers will use the information to learn about who wants to get tested at pharmacies, why, and what might make testing easier in the future.
You will choose which test(s) you want. The pharmacist performs the test(s) and explains your results to you.
You will get results from rapid tests during the same visit. The pharmacist will call you when your dried blood spot test results are available.
If the test(s) indicate you might have HIV, hepatitis C, and/or syphilis, the pharmacist will discuss this result with you and connect you to a health care team for further testing and care.
After testing, the pharmacist can discuss ways to reduce your risk of future infection, other testing options, and other supports. This can include information on how to access prevention options like PrEP for HIV.