How do I collect an oral/urine/vaginal/rectal/nasal sample?
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You can read and download all of our handy instruction leaflets
here. Each takes you step-by-step through the process of using each of our kits and obtaining the appropriate samples.
Are there times when it is not appropriate to use this postal testing service?
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If you are 16 or over and have been exposed to any of the conditions for which we provide kits, then home testing is suitable for you.
If you are under 16 and feel you may have been at risk, please call the helpline for a confidential pre-test discussion with one of our experienced health advisers on 0121 424 2834.
How will I get my results?
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You will receive notification by phone (reactive result) or text message (negative or inconclusive results).
What happens if I have a positive or reactive test?
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The most likely reason for a reaction on a test is that you have the condition you were testing for.
There is however a small chance of a false reaction. This means that the test is showing positive even though you do not have the condition in question (see the ‘Your Kit’ section of the website). This is why it is important to test again following a “reactive” sample.
What do I do if I receive a text or voicemail advising me to call to discuss my test result?
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Receiving a text or phone call about your test result can be upsetting and stressful especially when you know the reason you are calling is to discuss a reaction on your test. The first thing to remember is that not all reactive tests indicate a positive result, and all reactive tests require a second ‘confirmatory test’ in order that we can be assured of the accuracy of any result.
Who will see my results?
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Only you and the clinical team who manage your result will see your result. If you need further testing for example if there is a reaction on your first test, the clinician who notifies you will ask your permission to share your result with the clinic or healthcare worker where you will be taking your repeat test.
How soon will I get my results?
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We aim to contact you regarding your test results within between seven and ten working days. This provides enough time for your sample to arrive in the lab, to be processed, and for you to be contacted. If you have not heard from us after ten working days please
contact us for advice.
Is the service confidential?
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Yes! Every step of the process is entirely confidential: from the moment you order a kit online, your information is stored in our system against a unique identifier – this, not your name, will be used to track your test from your order to the final result. Our system is housed on servers of exactly the same quality and security used by the NHS itself – that means your data is the safest it can possibly be, and held to the same standards as your patient records.
The envelope you receive the test in will be plain, as will the return envelope you’ll be provided to post your sample back to the lab. That means your data is secure – and no one will be able to tell what you’re getting in the post.
How secure is the data I submit to TakeATestUK.com ?
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Extremely. Our website runs over highly secure a ‘SSL’ connection, ensuring high-level data encryption. To store and monitor your data during the testing process, we use ‘N3’ servers – the security standard mandated by the NHS for the storage of patient information and records. That means your data is the safest it possibly can be, at every stage. We apply the information governance regulations of the NHS to TakeATestUK.com – there’s no greater protection of your personal medical data.
What will be on the packaging?
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The packaging will be a plain envelope with no markings on it all all: just the address you provided to us.
Why should I take a test?
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Because it is the only way to know for sure whether or not you are infected.
The later a person access treatment for any condition, the poorer their prognosis can be. Late diagnosis is associated with greater complications. So taking tests regularly if you are sexually active and having unprotected sex makes a lot of sense.
Testing should be a routine part of looking after your health.
Will taking an HIV Test affect my insurance?
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No. As with any other chronic condition, if you are found to have HIV then your insurance premiums may be affected. But simply taking the test has no impact at all on your insurance.
When should I take the test?
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If you are worried about having a particular condition, then you should take a test.
For more advice on timing of tests please contact us or a confidential pre-test discussion with one of our experienced health advisers.
What is the relationship between TakeATestUK and the Saving Lives Charity?
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Saving Lives is a UK-based charity dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of testing. Its health promotion work has enabled clinics across the country to run high-impact awareness-raising campaigns, and gained national media attention for testing and associated issues. It provides professional-level health promotion and marketing services to its partners.
TakeATestUK is a project devised and managed by the Saving Lives charity. It also involves other expert partners which deliver specific aspects of the service. Saving Lives is responsible for day-to-day operations and customer service.
