SC DPH offering free STD HIV testing

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South Carolina Department of Public Health

Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is observing its sixth annual PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) Awareness Week with free HIV testing.

The department is also offering PrEP educational webinars for providers and other activities, including visits to college campuses.

SCDPH’s statewide PrEP Awareness Week initiative aims to increase awareness among providers and the community regarding PrEP, a pill, or injection that can help significantly decrease HIV infection if someone is exposed to the virus.

“PrEP Awareness Week helps increase knowledge about HIV testing and prevention. Knowing your status is the first step toward protecting your health and preventing HIV,” says Tia Robinson, DPH’s PrEP and Clinical Services Manager.

As part of PrEP Awareness Week, free and confidential sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing will be offered on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at most local health departments.

To make an appointment, call 1-855-472-3432 or schedule online using Web Chat.

DPH is also collaborating with several local community-based organizations to provide free and confidential HIV testing, PrEP counseling and resources, and PrEP gear on college campuses during the month of September.

For health care providers, and in partnership with the South Carolina AIDS Education & Training Center (AETC), DPH will offer the opportunity to earn up to seven free continuing education credits (Medical, Nursing,, Pharmacy, and Social Work) via a Lunch & Learn webinar series throughout PrEP Awareness Week.

The webinars will be held Monday through Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. This year’s topics will include: