Countywide : Low-Cost HIV Tests Are Planned Today

A low-cost, anonymous HIV-testing program that is expected to draw at least 10,000 people begins today at five Southern California sites.

The program, which organizers say is one of the most ambitious undertakings of HIV testing to date, will be conducted in Orange, Los Angeles and Riverside counties today and next Saturday. For $13, participants will receive a blood test and individual counseling before and after the test.

The fee also includes a confirmation test for those who test positive for the human immuno-deficiency virus. Information on local medical and psychological support groups will also be available. Organizers said testing and counseling usually average $75 to $90.

In Orange County, the testing will be available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 500 S. Anaheim Hills Road, No. 146, Anaheim. For locations in Los Angeles and Riverside counties or for more information, call 1-800-627-TEST. The message is available in English and Spanish.

Cash only is requested to ensure anonymity, and names and other personal information will not be requested. Those taking the test will be given a number that will be assigned to their blood sample. After a week, participants may return to the testing site with their number to receive the results.

“We’ve had almost almost 5,000 phone calls from people wanting more information about where to go for the test,” said Andrea Hecht of Hecht Communications, which is handling the campaign. “That certainly says there are a lot of people out there who want to know whether they are (HIV) positive, and we are thrilled that they are saying, ‘At such a price, this is something I have to take advantage of now.’ ”

The program is being sponsored by AIDS Project Los Angeles, Century City Hospital, County-USC Medical Center, KTTV Channel 11 and SmithKline Beecham Clinical Laboratories ).