HIV testing services in Irvine

As the largest LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers is encouraging the community to know their HIV status and stay protected. Our HIV testing services play a crucial part in the early detection of HIV for so many people. However, countless others could also benefit from our services. Our goal is to give access to those most at risk from the virus by providing free HIV testing for the uninsured or underinsured provided by the California Department of Public Health Strategic Rapid ART grant. Those with insurance can also access our testing and treatment in a stigma-free environment.

Treating HIV Starts With Knowing Your Status

According to data from UNAIDS, 38.4 million people globally were living with HIV in 2021, but 28.7 million were accessing antiretroviral therapy. Further data suggests that last year, around 85% of people with HIV knew their status. While this figure shows considerable improvement from years past, the targeted figure of 90% (that was set for 2020) has not been reached. In brief, increasing knowledge about the importance of HIV testing and improving access to services is vital to improving status awareness.

Why Knowing Your HIV Status Is so Important

Knowing your status provides personal benefits – and broader societal benefits for the Orange County community. In many cases, a person can feel fine, exhibiting no clear signs of HIV, yet may still test positive. Because physical symptoms are not reliable indicators, the need for testing is very real.

Not only does HIV testing help prevent passing the virus to others, it also ensures people can get fast access to PEP or Rapid ART treatments. And as we’ve seen with events like the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, educating about benefits can lead to behavioral changes within the community.

Who Should Get Tested for HIV?

If you have concerns about exposure to HIV, you should make an immediate appointment at Radiant Health Centers’ Irvine medical clinic for testing as soon as possible. The CDC recommends that everyone between ages 13 and 64 get tested at least once for HIV. In addition, you should get a test if you have had sex with someone whose sexual history you don’t know.

Improving HIV Testing Accessibility

One of the primary concerns for people most at risk for HIV is accessibility to testing and treatment. Factors including travel distance, costs and stigma may prevent individuals from knowing their status. At Radiant Health Centers, we aim to improve accessibility with free HIV testing options for the uninsured provided by the California Department of Public Health Strategic Rapid ART grant. We also offer easy access to treatment, telehealth support and virtual counseling and mental health support.

Safe and Confidential HIV Testing Services in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides free HIV, STD and hepatitis C testing from our Irvine medical clinic. When you want to access testing, treatment or counseling services in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers works with the LGBTQ+ community to meet these needs. Call (949) 809-5700 for general inquiries.

AIDS Walk Orange County fundraising

On Saturday, October 22, 2022 at 9 a.m., the annual AIDS Walk Orange County returns for its 36th year. This event offers the chance to come together, support people living with HIV/AIDS – and remember those we lost to the virus. At Radiant Health Centers, we invite the Orange County community to join us and walk in support of unity, family, love and equality for all.

Everything You Need to Know About AIDS Walk Orange County 2022

AIDS Walk Orange County starts at Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley. The action-packed event includes a “fun walk,” live entertainment, games, food trucks, plus an arts and crafts vendor fair. Some events to look forward to are the cutest dog contest, the most creative AIDS Walk T-shirt – and our top fundraiser and team announcement.

Participants may register as an individual, create a team or join a team, with the registration fee set at $25. There is no fundraising minimum to take part. And remember, every dollar counts, and we encourage people to work together to reach their fundraising goals.

If you cannot walk with us this year, you can still participate in the cause and help us by donating. Any amount you donate is appreciated!

Why AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 Matters

AIDS Walk Orange County has enabled Radiant Health Centers to support the LGBTQ+ community with health services, mental health counseling and other social services. With a history dating back to 1986, the walk brings together friends and families in solidarity with people living with HIV, and with those who have lost their lives.

Many people within the LGBTQ+ community face health disparities and struggle to get the healthcare they need. At Radiant Health Centers we provide the highest level of medical care and support, thanks in part to the generosity of our donors and sponsors. A special mention to the sponsors of this year’s event – ADP, Gilead, Biktarvy, Descovy, Avita, Hyundai, Room & Board and Shopoff Realty Investments.

Building on the Success of Last Year’s Walk

Last year’s event was a big success, with hundreds of participants raising a total of more than $120,000. This year we hope to do even better with the help of individuals and organizations in the community.

Funds raised have allowed us to invest in critical support services, including HIV testing, STI testing, medical services and youth programs. These programs improve health outcomes for people with HIV/AIDS, and deliver prevention, treatment and care to tackle the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. By walking with us and donating to AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 this October, you can play an essential role in the fight to end HIV.

Attend the AIDS Walk Orange County and Donate to the Cause

Donating to AIDS Walk Orange County allows us to support thousands of LGBTQ+ people with health and social services. Please visit the fundraising page to register for the walk and donate to the cause. For any general inquiries, you can call us at (949) 809-5700.