June 27 is National HIV Testing Day

June 27 is National HIV Testing Day and is an annual occasion to encourage  
people to get tested for HIV.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  
(CDC) and Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommend that everyone  
between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of  
their routine health care.  One in seven people living with HIV are unaware  
of their status. Getting tested and learning your status is the best first  
step that any person can take.

The Iowa Pharmacy Association, in partnership with IDPH, would like to  
encourage all Iowans who have not yet received an HIV test to get tested.  
Pharmacies within your community are now offering free and confidential  
screenings.

In addition to testing, pharmacists in these pharmacies have been  
specifically trained to provide counseling based on test results and support  
services to those who need assistance. The pharmacists have also been trained  
on connecting patients to local and state resources to confirm results and to  
provide subsequent care.

Free testing services, including free pharmacy testing locations, can be  
found on stophiviowa.org. In your area, the following pharmacies are  
currently participating:

Rex Pharmacy – 507 Chestnut, Atlantic
Atlantic Medical Center Pharmacy – 1501 E. 10th street, Atlantic
Anita Clinic Pharmacy – 710 Main Street, Anita