Post-test discussion

  • Post-test discussion for people with negative results is usually limited.
  • People who have tested positive will need information and support over the following days and weeks.

Many sexual health clinics give negative results by phone or by text message in order to reduce the number of follow-up appointments and to make the best use of the available resources. However, results should be given face-to-face if the person would prefer that.

Moreover, BHIVA recommends that results are given face-to-face:

  • to people who are more likely to have a positive result
  • if English is not their first language
  • for young people under the age of 16
  • for those who are highly anxious or vulnerable
  • for those with mental health issues or at risk of suicide
  • for hospital inpatients
This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.