Rapid HIV Testing: Getting Started

To begin rapid HIV testing, follow the steps below; test at least one person before Part 2 (aka the booster).

 / Rev. 1/30/18
You are eligible for a one-on-one phone walk-thruof the steps below. To schedule, email .
  1. CLIA Waiver: If your agency doesn’t already have a waiver to do rapid HIV testing, apply for one. Visit and click on the FORMS page for the information you need.

  1. Policies & Procedures / Quality Assurance Plan:a ready-to-adapt template is available on the FORMS page of

  1. Crisis: Make sure you know your agency’s protocol for dealing with a consumer in crisis.

  1. Set up a Lab: If you don’t already have access to a private rapid testing area (and a refrigerator) set one up. List of necessary supplies & equipment is available on the FORMS page of

  1. Confirmatory Tests: You must confirm all preliminary positive rapid tests. Before you begin testing, make sure you know the proper procedure. Email if you are in doubt.

  1. Bubble Sheets: If you don’t already have a supply of HIV Test Forms download a Request for HIV Test Formson the FORMS page of REMINDER: bring all your bubble sheets to Part 2 for review BEFORE you submit.

  1. Worker ID: You may have to wait until you complete Part 2 to be eligible for a worker ID. Until then, when filling out bubble sheets, just leave that blank. NOTE: Bring all bubble sheets to Part 2 for review before submitting.

  1. Site ID: If your agency is new to the HIV / EIS program, it is now eligible for a Site ID. Email for assistance applying for a Site ID. Until you receive yours, leave this blank when filling out bubble sheets.

  1. Testing Supplies:Look to see if there is a supply of HIV testing devices and controls (these will be refrigerated) at your site. If so, check the expiration date. If your testing supplies are within 2 months of expiration, call Winona at 404.805.0369.Your source for rapid HIV test kits is your hub ( FORMS page, click on Rapid HIV Test Kit Distribution HUBS).To get controls and accessories fill out a SURE CHECK Request form (available on the FORMS page of

  1. When Testing Supplies Arrive: Run controls on each lot (there may be more than one box in a lot) of testing devices. Reminder: refrigerate controls upon receipt.

  1. Prepare for a Positive Test Result: Before you test anyone, we strongly recommend that you: Call your local Public Health Office and visit to introduce yourself. Meet, face-to-face, with the people that you will depend on to provide your HIV-positive clients with medical case management and social services, and to perform partner notification.Find out what services are available and how to help clients access.

  1. Begin Rapid Testing: For each test, fill out a bubble sheet and store it in a locked drawer. Bring all your bubble sheets with you to Part 2 – do not send them in until we have a chance to review them. Reminder: when co-workers, family members, or friends want an HIV test, recommend another facility; do not test people that you know.

Questions? Call Winona, 404.805.0369 or Marie, 404.606.1728.