Answer:
HIV tests are widely sold in an at-home form at many drug stores in the United States. Performing HIV tests at home offers anonymity and convenience to clients who may not otherwise go to a public clinic location. These tests are relatively easy to perform on yourself and your results can be retrieved by phone. A unique number is provided to retreive the results and the testing doesnt require a name to be submitted and processed.
The accuracy of the test is dependent on the person's ability to follow the specific instructions provided in the kit. It is very important that each direction be followed in correct order and that specimens are shipped immediately. The accuracy of the testing will be less than the tests used in a clinic location or HIV testing site.
Rapid response HIV testing is widely available in the U.S. Oral HIV testing is very accurate and most HIV testing locations offer results in as little as 20 minutes.
Getting tested at a free clinic location also saves you the cost of the test (around $50.00) and staff to administer the test correct, answer your questions, and help you better understand your test results.