PREVENTION

The Drop-In Center provides access to information/education, resources and services in the prevention of HIV/STDs and Hepatitis C.

Rapid Finger-stick Testing

The Drop-In Center provides free, confidential rapid finger-stick HIV testing and finger-stick HCV screening by trained staff through use of OraSure and OraQuick tests. These tests are highly accurate and can provide preliminary results in 20 minutes.* There is no appointment necessary to be tested.

*The OraQuick test is more than 99% accurate at detecting HIV antibodies if they are present. The body can take 3-6 months to start producing these antibodies after the contraction of HIV. Someone who has contacted HIV may not test positive for up to 6 months and certain medications can cause even more of a delay. During your testing session, you will be asked about these specific medications. It is important to be honest about your medical history.

What Happens if I Test Positive?

If you are HIV or HCV positive, we can help link you with the medical treatment you need. Through our patient navigator program, we will work with you one-on-one to get you the services and resources you need.

Testing in the New River Valley

The Drop-In Center operates a satellite office at Virginia Tech for residents of the New River Valley. The office is located on the 2^nd floor of Schiffert Health Center and testing is on the 2^nd and 4^th Tuesday of every month from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM by appointment only.

STD Testing

The Drop-In Center tests only for HIV and Hepatitis C. We recommend you see your primary care doctor or your local health department.

The Roanoke City Health Department offers free STD testing on Monday at 1:30 PM and Wednesday at 12:30 PM.

Contraceptives

The Drop-In Center offers a variety of latex and polyurethane (latex-free) condoms. All condoms and barriers are free and available for pick up during our regular business hours.

Education and Field Testing

The Drop-In Center offers a variety of community building and educational programs. Our staff is available to come to your agency or facility to provide free prevention/education services as well as free, confidential testing.

The Center houses free magazines, informational brochures, and other health and social-related issues literature. These are available for pick up during our regular business hours.

Comprehensive Harm Reduction Program

If you or someone you know is using drugs, we can help. Drop-In Center North, located at 2328 Williamson Road provides access to syringe exchange mobile unit (for clean needles and needle disposal), risk reduction counseling, HIV and Hepatitis C testing, would care/clean works kits, linkage to care, and more. We also offer harm reduction, skill-building classes, at our office and at treatment centers across Southwest Virginia. To be eligible for our syringe exchange mobile services you MUST stop by for intake at our physical location on Williamson Road.

CLEAR (Choose Life! Empowerment, Action, Results!)

CLEAR is a one-on-one, five session program with specific set goals, including developing daily routines that will optimize physical and mental health; address substance abuse; and develop consistent ways to practice safe sex. One-on-one sessions occur with a trained service provider.

All services and materials are free and there may be an incentive for your participation.