What's the difference between a POCT and an HIV test with Fettle?

There are different types of point of care test (POCT). Some of them just test for HIV 1 and 2 antibodies (this is what your body's immune system makes to fight the virus). One type tests for the HIV antibody and p24 antigen (this is part of the virus). Different clinics will use different tests.

The HIV lab test that Fettle uses tests for HIV 1 and 2. It looks for the HIV antibody and the p24 antigen. Your test sample is sent to the laboratory for testing and you'll receive your result by text in a few days.

The main difference between our test and a POCT is that a POCT gives you the result immediately (within 20 minutes, depending on which test is used). Like Fettle’s HIV test, POCTs are screening tests and give a ‘reactive’ result which needs to be confirmed with a blood test sent to the laboratory.