Contact: Elizabeth N. Gandara-MPH, HIV/STI Health Program Coordinator, (831) 755-6349 

Routine HIV Testing – Why Wait? Get Tested.

CDC Recommendations for HIV Testing of Adults and Adolescents in Health Care Settings

The CDC estimates that 1 in 5 people infected with HIV are unaware that they are infected…and 54% of new sexually transmitted HIV infections in the US originate from HIV-infected persons who are unaware of their infection.

CDC recommendations urge providers to include HIV testing as a routine part of health care for all patients 13 – 64 years of age regardless of their risk. Routine HIV testing ensures that:

• More people learn about their HIV infection
• Those who learn about their infection will benefit from earlier access to treatment
• There is a reduction in the risk of further transmitting HIV to others

HIV + Services

Taking the step to get in care can be challenging, but extremely helpful in managing HIV. Please also refer to our resource guide for further information.

• OPIS Clinic – Part of Montage Medical Group, OPIS is a comprehensive treatment program for those living with HIV; includes personal case management, medical treatment, and self-referred HIV testing and counseling.
  • 2 Upper Ragsdale Dr., Building A, Monterey, CA 93940
  • (831) 333-3040
• NIDO Clinic - Administered by the Health Department's Clinic Services Bureau, the clinic offers primary care for patients with HIV, including personal care management, testing and treatment.
  • 1441 Constitution Blvd., Bldg. 760, Salinas, CA 93906
  • (831) 796-1770
• Access Support Network (ASN) - ASN is a non-profit, community based organization that provides supportive services to people living with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV).
  • 223 John St., Salinas, 93901
  • (831) 975-5016

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PreP)

Condom Distribution Program

Syringe Exchange in Monterey County

Sexual Health Collaborative

• The Sexual Health Collaborative, previously known as the Monterey County HIV Planning Group (MCHPG) is a group of service providers and concerned community members whose purpose is to identify local needs for STI, HCV and HIV education and prevention, as well as care and treatment services.
• If you are interested in learning more about the Sexual Health Collaborative or attending quarterly meetings, please contact Elizabeth Gandara at (831) 755-6349 

TakeMeHome is a free sexual health home testing program. They provide free HIV tests that you can take in a place you’re most comfortable without going to a clinic or testing site.

• To request a free confidential at home HIV test kit visit TakeMeHome.org 
• Preliminary positive tests are preliminary, confirmatory testing is necessary.
• This is an antibody test, it detects antibodies to HIV. They can typically detect HIV 23-90 days after exposure, so it is important to test 90 days after exposure to receive a more accurate result.
• If you are exposed to HIV, or presume to be exposed to HIV, please reach out to the NIDO clinic and ask about PEP, HIV medicine to prevent HIV infection within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure.

Reach out to Elizabeth Gandara with any questions.

Phone: (831) 755-6349 

Email: GandaraE@countyofmonterey.gov 

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