Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing is:
- an easy and quick way to test for HIV and hepatitis C.
- more convenient as a nurse will come to you to complete the test.
- simple and only mild discomfort from a finger-prick test is common
- only one finger prick needed to get the blood sample
- totally confidential.
What is a DBS test?
- A DBS test is a free, easy and accurate way to test for HIV and/or hepatitis C.
- The test works by putting a few drops of blood from your finger on a test card and leaving it to dry.
- The card is then sent to a laboratory to test if your blood has HIV and/or hepatitis C.
Can anyone get a DBS test?
- To have the DBS test in a NSW adult correctional centre you must be able to give independent informed consent
- You can have a DBS test for hepatitis C because you have served time in a correctional facility and you can agree to have a HIV test.
How will I get my results?
- Your dried blood spot will be sent to a laboratory to test if the blood has HIV and/or hepatitis C.
- You can expect to get your results about two weeks after the test.
- When the result of your DBS test is ready, if a positive test result is returned a nurse at your location will contact you for further testing.
- If you have been released from custody and a positive test result has been returned, a nurse from Sexual Health Info Link (SHIL) will contact you with your results and discuss further follow up with you.
For more information, please talk to a nurse at your local Health Centre.