HIV/STI Testing

Testing is offered by the following organizations:

• Equitas Health: HIV/STI testing is currently operating at limited capacity (by appointment only and at a limited number of locations) due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but this is subject to change.  Please visit the appointment scheduling page on their website for further information.
• Columbus Public Health: HIV/STI testing is currently operating at normal capacity, but this is subject to change. Please visit the Columbus Public Health website for further information.
• Out of the Closet (AIDS Healthcare Foundation): HIV/STI testing is currently operating at normal capacity (appointments strongly encouraged), but this is subject to change. Please visit Out of the Closet's website for further information.
• Nationwide Children's: HIV/STI testing is open to the public, with no appointment needed. Please visit Nationwide Children's website for operating hours and further information. 

Contact the Ohio HIV/STI Hotline by phone at 1-800-332-2437 or by text at 614-859-OHIV (6448) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Monday through Friday to discuss other testing options available at this time. If you contact the Hotline after hours, leave a message and an operator will contact you as soon as possible. This service is affiliated with Equitas Health, and is not managed by The Ohio State University.

OSU Student Health Services: HIV/STI testing is still available at Student Health Services. These services will have a cost associated with them. Schedule an appointment with Student Health Services. 

Check-In and Registration
When students arrive at the Student Wellness Center, they will be directed to the FACES clinical team at the check-in table. A team member will assist with scheduling a walk-in appointment and provide any required registration and intake forms. The clinical team will review available services and testing options based on the student's needs and interests. All services provided during these events are free of charge.

Confidential Testing and Education
After check-in, students will be escorted to a private room where they can confidentially discuss their testing options with a FACES team member. Available screenings may include HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis testing. Depending on the tests selected, specimens may be collected through a blood sample, urine sample, and/or swab. Throughout the visit, team members will explain each step of the process and answer questions related to sexual health, HIV/STI prevention, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), testing, and available resources.

Receiving Test Results
For tests with same-day results, students will receive their results privately during the visit. Any tests requiring laboratory processing will be communicated directly and confidentially to the student once results are available. Students will be offered access to MyChart, allowing them to securely view their results online. If a student chooses not to use MyChart, results will be communicated by phone. Test results are confidential and will not be shared with Student Wellness Center staff.

Follow-Up and Support
If additional follow-up is needed, the FACES team will contact the student directly to discuss next steps. For positive STI results, the team will help coordinate appropriate treatment and follow-up care. If a preliminary or reactive HIV result is identified, FACES staff will provide counseling, arrange any necessary confirmatory testing, and assist with connecting the student to HIV care and support services through the FACES Clinic. One of the benefits of having the FACES team onsite is their ability to guide students through the entire process, ensuring they receive the support, resources, and care they need every step of the way.