Thundermist offering free HIV testing Wednesday

Thundermist Health Center will offer free HIV testing in recognition of National HIV Testing Day on Wednesday, June 27, 2018. Rhode Islanders can visit any of the three QuickCare at Thundermist locations between 9:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on June 27 for confidential testing on a walk-in basis.

The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Knowing your HIV status gives you powerful information to help you take steps to keep you and your partner(s) healthy. Approximately one in seven people in the United States who have HIV do not know they have it.

“Early detection of HIV is important to ensuring the best health outcomes and limiting transmission of the virus,” said Michael Poshkus, MD, medical director of Thundermist Health Center of West Warwick and an infectious disease specialist. “We invite all Rhode Islanders to take advantage of this opportunity for free testing. It only takes a few minutes, and could have tremendous benefits for you and your partner(s).”

Testing will be offered at three locations: 1 River St., Wakefield; 450 Clinton St., Woonsocket; and 186 Providence St., West Warwick.

Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island is a sponsor of the event.