Ngā whakamātautau HIV me te pākewakewa (syphilis) ki te taiwhanga pūtaiao
HIV and syphilis tests at a laboratory
The only way to test for syphilis is with a blood test at a laboratory. It’s a good idea to get a blood test for HIV at the same time.
How does it work?
When you request laboratory tests through Request a Test, you pick the town or city where you want to do your tests.
One of our nurses will process your request and order your tests. We'll send you an email when you can go to the laboratory to do your tests. It will include information about where to go.
It’s important you wait for this email before you go to get your blood tests. If you try to go to the laboratory before you get the email, they won’t know to expect you, and you won’t be able to get your tests.
How laboratory tests for HIV and syphilis work
It’s just like getting any other blood test. At the laboratory, someone will take a vial of your blood and send it away for testing.
Different laboratories have different collection and processing times. We’ll get the results to you as soon as we can.
If your result is negative (meaning you don’t have HIV or syphilis - or you've tested too soon), we’ll let you know by sending a text message.
If your result is positive, we’ll call you to tell you your result and talk about next steps and treatment options.
Kōrero with a nurse
Not sure what type of test you need or where to go, and want to talk through the options? We’re here to help. Talk to a nurse – call us on freephone 0508 GET TESTED or start a web chat.