Who We Are
Check Yourself is the first ever HIV/STI non-clinic, self-collect testing initiative, developed by NCSD, for and in partnership with public health departments to uptake asymptomatic screening. The program offers a private and convenient way for patients to choose when and where to test for sexually transmitted infections. Check Yourself also offers POC (Point of Care)/rapid tests for in-clinic and outreach settings.
Our Mission
Empower individuals to be advocates for their health by providing accessible and convenient self-collection testing services ensuring proactive screening for the wellbeing of our communities.
Our Program Offerings
Remote Sample Collection Tests
Our remote sample collection STI test kits are designed for convenience, privacy and ease of use, catering to individuals Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB) and Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB). HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C screening is conducted as a dry blood spot (DBS) sample collection and administered via a DBS card. Our diverse kits offer users slight differences in collection devices and sample collection processes based on the type of kit that is selected.
All kits offer reliable testing solutions with the following features:
- Bilingual instructions: Each kit includes paper and video instructions in both English and Spanish to guide through sample collection process
- Pre-paid return shipping: A return label is included in the test kit to overnight ship sample collection to the laboratory
- Support and technical assistance: Access to a support line for help with any question or technical issues during the testing process
- Automated reminders: A notification system to remind patients to complete sample collection
- Patient Portal: A secure patient portal to view results is available in English and Spanish
- Clinical Support: Care team notifies patients of positive results
Point of Care Tests
Check Yourself offers POC (Point of Care)/rapid tests for syphilis, HIV, Hep C, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and other STI testing. Most tests are for in clinic or outreach settings, with a few tests available for home/remote use.
All POC/Rapid tests offer the following features:
- Tests include instructions in both English and Spanish to guide you through testing process
- Training meetings from the manufacturers and LMS/video instructions
- Support and technical assistance with any question or technical issues during the testing process
- Drop shipments to multiple locations
New to Check Yourself?
Sign up for an upcoming introductory call with our team to discuss how our services can fit your programmatic needs. Check Yourself provides participating sites communication materials, technical assistance, training, fiscal management and a reporting system. Email us at checkyourself@ncsddc.org to schedule time today!
FAQs
Who is eligible to use remote self-collection test kits?
Our test kits are suitable for asymptomatic individuals who are 18 years of age and older. We offer specific kits that cater to biological needs to ensure accurate sample collection and testing.
How do patients return self-collection samples to the lab?
Each kit includes a prepaid return label for overnight shipping via USPS. Once the patient has collected the sample, simply package it as instructed and drop it off at any USPS location.
How will the patient receive sample collection test results?
Patients can access results securely through a bilingual patient portal (English & Spanish). The patient will receive communications in their personal email, prompting them to log-in to their patient portal account and view results online. If a patient has an abnormal result, the laboratory will conduct up to 3 outreach calls to the patient and alert them of the result, explain what their diagnosis means and guided on next steps for additional testing and/or linkage to care.
What if the patient needs help during the sample collection process?
Patients can contact the following email address: support@poweredbyash.com between Monday through Friday, 8am-6pm EST for any questions including kits status, sample collection, technical issues; etc. The patient support center is available via the patient portal in English and Spanish.
