Sacred Heart offering free HIV testing in mid-Michigan cities on national awareness day

SAGINAW, MI – Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Center is promoting National HIV Testing Day by offering free confidential screenings at locations in Saginaw, Bay City and Flint, according to a news release.

Free tests are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at each location Monday, June 28. The Bay City Sacred Heart is located at 1106 N Washington Ave; the Flint location is at 2091 Professional Drive, and the Saginaw branch is located on the third floor of 301 E Genesee Ave. Tests are 99% accurate with results in 20 minutes, and Sacred Heart offers free and confidential care for anyone who tests positive, according to the release.

Those interested can make an appointment by called (989) 776-6000, extension 6516, and walk-ins are also welcome.

National HIV Testing Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about HIV testing and the importance of early diagnosis. Roughly 14% of Americans living with HIV or AIDS don’t know they’re infected because they haven’t been tested, according to the release. An estimated 400 Great Lakes Bay Region residents are living with HIV or AIDS.

“We urge people to get tested so they know their status and get into medical care if they test positive for HIV,” said Tom Brubaker, Sacred Heart community relations coordinator, in the release. “HIV is spread by people who are infected and not aware of their HIV status. By getting into medical treatment early and living a healthy lifestyle, most people can live a normal life span.”

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