Walgreens to provide free HIV testing

For the third consecutive year, Walgreens is partnering with Greater Than AIDS and local health departments across the country to provide free HIV testing between June 27 and June 29.

HIV testing will be available at 175 Walgreens locations in 54 cities in 22 states. On National HIV Testing Day (June 27), Walgreens will display special messages on its Times Square digital display in New York City encouraging people to get tested.

“Access to testing, education, and care are critical when it comes to the treatment and prevention of this complex condition,” said Glen Pietrandoni, senior manager of virology at Walgreens. “We have supported people living with HIV/AIDS since the beginning of the epidemic more than 30 years ago and will continue to be a trusted resource. Through this significant collaboration, we can help even more people get, stay and live well.”

The weekend of free HIV tests will involve more than 130 state and local health departments and AIDS-service organizations. Outreach services will be provided in addition to on-site results. 

An estimated 250,000 people in the United States are living with the HIV virus but are unaware of it.

“Frequent testing is the first step towards early treatment and preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS,” said Tina Hoff, senior vice president and director of health communication and media partnerships, Kaiser Family Foundation, a founding partner of Greater Than AIDS. 

The tests will be available June 27 and June 28 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and June 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.