This test checks for both HIV antibodies and the p24 antigen, allowing for earlier detection of HIV infection than antibody-only tests. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) affects the immune system’s ability to fight everyday infections and illness.
Who it's for
Anyone concerned they may have been exposed to HIV
Often requested as part of fertility assessments before beginning treatment
A helpful test for peace of mind or routine screening
What happens
We’ll begin by taking some brief details about your health and current circumstances so we can make sure this is the right service for you.
A trained clinician will then take a small blood sample - usually from your arm, occasionally from your hand. We’ll always aim to make the process as quick and comfortable as possible.
Preparation
To make your blood draw as easy and comfortable as possible, come well-hydrated and don’t skip breakfast, it really does make a difference. Keeping warm helps too, so layer up before you arrive.
You’re more than welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member for support.
When results are ready
If your appointment is before midday Monday to Friday, your results will usually be ready within 24 hours.
For tests taken after midday during the week, results are typically available within 36 to 48 hours.
Weekend appointments? You can expect your results by the following Tuesday.
On the day
To make your blood draw as smooth as possible, come well-hydrated and don’t skip breakfast - it really does make a difference. Staying warm helps too, so wrap up before you arrive.
If your appointment is between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, head into Main Reception at Greetwell Place. The reception team will let us know you’ve arrived.
If you’re booked outside of those hours, when reception is closed, follow the road to the right of the building, past the 5mph sign. Park near the ScanLinc sandwich board sign - that’s our private entrance. Please note there’s no access to the building before your appointment if reception is closed.
We kindly ask that you wait in your car or nearby at a respectful distance until we come to meet you. Some visitors prefer to keep their appointments private, and we like to honour that.
ON THE DAY
Meet Your Team
You won’t see a different face every time you walk through the door.
ScanLinc is run by just three of us - Sam, Hannah and Megan - and between us, you’re always in safe hands.
Megan Evans
Megan is a qualified, HCPC-registered Sonographer who also works within the NHS as an Obstetric Sonographer. That dual perspective means she’s not only clinically brilliant, but always in the loop with evolving NHS practices, bringing the best of both worlds to your care.
Sam Nicholls
Sam is our Clinic Director and Advanced Practitioner Sonographer. With postgraduate training in gynaecology, fertility and early pregnancy, and over two decades of NHS experience, she brings a calm, expert presence to every scan. She’s also our CQC lead and maintains her Midwifery registration, so you can be sure your care is clinically sound, safe and current.
Hannah Sleight
Hannah is our Technical Director and a qualified Sonographer. She has a knack for turning complex tech into calm, seamless experiences, from streamlining operations to keeping us at the cutting edge with the latest imaging innovations (like our 8K scan enhancements). She makes the clinic run like clockwork.