It’s National HIV Testing Day. Do you know your status? A group of LGBT organizations and bloggers are calling for people to post, blog and tweet about their HIV tests on using the hashtag #TestMe.
Meanwhile, local agencies are offering testing at these locations on the following dates:
• AIDS Interfaith Network at General Mexican Consulate, 1210 Riverbend Drive
June 28, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
• Resource Center Dallas at Nelson-Tebedo Community Clinic, 4012 Cedar Springs Road
June 27–28, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m.
• Dallas County, Abounding Prosperity and AIDS Arms at six area Walgreens, from 3 p.m.–7 p.m. June 27–28, and from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. June 29:
1461 Robert B. Cullum Blvd.
3211 S. Lancaster Road
3826 Cedar Springs Road
3802 Cedar Springs Road
731 W. Belt Line Road, DeSoto
1325 Pennsylvania Ave., #60, Fort Worth
After the jump, read a statement from President Barack Obama.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2013Statement by the President on National HIV Testing Day
Today is National HIV Testing Day, when we encourage people across the United States to get tested. Early detection and treatment for HIV saves lives, and yet over half of adults in the United States have never been tested. Nearly one in five people living with HIV in this country doesn’t know his or her status. That delays treatment, increases the risk of transmission, and sets us back in our fight against the epidemic.
Getting an HIV test is easier and faster than ever. And this past April, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommended that everyone between the ages of 15 and 65 get screened for HIV as part of their routine health care. That means, under the Affordable Care Act, new health care plans will be required to cover HIV testing without any additional out-of-pocket costs.
But more Americans still need to decide to take the test. We know from experience here at home and around the world that HIV testing opens the door to treatment, reduces the spread of the virus, and helps people lead longer, healthier lives. That’s why, on a trip to Africa in 2006, Michelle and I were tested for HIV – because there should be no shame or stigma associated with knowing your status. And if we each do our part by getting tested – and encourage our friends and family to do the same – then we will move closer to an AIDS-free generation.
