In a landmark collaboration, Walgreens and Greater Than HIV, a public information initiative of KFF, have teamed up with health departments and community organizations nationwide to offer free rapid HIV and STD testing at more than 550 Walgreens locations on June 27. This initiative marks the largest coordinated National HIV Testing Day event in the country.

With rising rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), this year’s event will also provide free rapid syphilis and hepatitis C testing at numerous locations. This expansive public-private partnership aims to deliver essential health services directly to communities in accessible and familiar settings.

"This unique partnership brings free rapid HIV and STD testing directly to communities in a familiar setting, connecting individuals to trusted local prevention and treatment service providers in their area," said Tina Hoff, Senior Vice President at KFF.

Convenient and Confidential Testing

A list of participating Walgreens stores and their testing hours is available online, with no appointments necessary. Testing is conducted by local partners in private areas of the stores or in mobile units, ensuring confidentiality and comfort. Results are available in 20 minutes or less, and counselors are on hand to answer questions about HIV and STDs, as well as provide the latest information on prevention and treatment options, including referrals for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a highly effective medication for preventing HIV.

"This program is instrumental in reaching people in community settings, making HIV prevention and treatment options more equitable, accessible, and convenient," said Rick Gates, Chief Pharmacy Officer at Walgreens. "Walgreens has been committed to preventing and treating HIV for over 40 years, and this initiative furthers our mission to support those living with HIV through comprehensive services, including confidential counseling and financial assistance for medication."

Generous Support and Participation

Major manufacturers of HIV rapid tests, including Abbott Laboratories, BioLytical Laboratories, ChemBio Diagnostics, and OraSure Technologies, have donated tests to support this year's initiative. Additionally, ChemBio Diagnostics and Diagnostics Direct have donated rapid syphilis tests.

Since its inception in 2011, the KFF's Greater Than HIV and Walgreens National HIV Community Partnership has facilitated over 82,000 free HIV tests through its in-store National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) program. This includes more than 15,000 self-tests distributed during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 14th year of this partnership marks the highest level of participation, with more testing partners and stores involved than ever before.

About Walgreens

Walgreens, part of the Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., is an integrated healthcare, pharmacy, and retail leader with a 120-year heritage of caring for communities. Operating nearly 9,000 retail locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, Walgreens serves nearly 9 million customers and patients daily. Walgreens pharmacists are increasingly crucial in healthcare, providing a wide range of services that drive equitable access to care for underserved populations. The company offers a true omnichannel experience, integrating physical and digital platforms to deliver high-quality products and healthcare services.

For more information on the free HIV and STD testing event and to find a participating Walgreens location near you, visit https://www.walgreens.com.