(COLDWATER) - The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has launched an online scheduling link for curbside, confidential, HIV testing.

As of June 27, 2022, which is National HIV Testing Day, residents of the tri-county area can request an appointment at the Three Rivers, Coldwater, or Hillsdale locations by going to the following website. LINKA.

CHA Medical Director Dr. Karen Luparello says since 1 in 7 people living with HIV are unaware they have it, and knowing your HIV status is the first step to prevention or accessing treatment services. She says with treatment, persons living with HIV can live a long and healthy life.

Luparello says under proper care, patients can reach an undetectable viral load in six months or less, making HIV un-transmittable. She says everyone should be tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime as a part of their regular annual provider visit.