Get Tested!

Health empowerment begins with awareness. And awareness often begins with health screening and testing. At COPE, this starts with a conversation. Together, we will discuss your health concerns and learn about your life goals. We want you to make an informed decision about your testing needs.

We are committed to your empowerment – to achieve your health goals so that you can realize your life goals.

COPE believes access to health education and screening should be easy. You will find COPE testing in the places people already gather – in community churches, soup kitchens, shelters, neighborhood streets, and at community events such as Hepatitis C Action Day and Harlem Week –making connections with and for those most in need.

Begin the Journey to Health Empowerment

Testing is where your journey to health empowerment starts.

Knowing your health status is the first step to making a plan for your health. Knowing your health status also empowers you to protect your partners’ health and the health of your community. COPE provides testing for hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV. We also can help you get tested for hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections.

We understand that it can be scary. So know that whatever your results, we will be there to help you take the next steps to achieve your health and life goals.

HIV and Hepatitis C Testing

COPE conducts both HCV and HIV 1/2 screenings, using the Orasure Oraquick® Rapid Antibody test kits. These screenings are non-invasive, highly accurate, and produce quick results. However, please note that confirmatory testing for the Hepatitis C virus involves several tests.

  • The first test detects antibodies, indicating exposure to HCV. It does not tell you if you have an active infection right now, just that you were exposed at one time.
  • If the test result is reactive for antibodies, the next test, a blood draw, will tell whether you still have the virus in your blood now, and if so, how much virus is present.

The process includes:

  • Finger Stick method
  • Quick results (20 minutes)
  • Antibody positive results get confirmatory blood specimen collected ASAP
  • Viral RNA lab results available within 10 days of being collected
  • Client referral to Liver Specialists for treatment information and follow up
  • Client referral to community support services, including support groups and community forums