Chattanooga CARES, the Tennessee Valley’s Resource Center for HIV/AIDS, now offers Rapid Hepatitis C tests. CARES has been providing free Rapid HIV test since 2006, and now we are adding on Rapid Hepatitis C tests as well. CARES has offered Hepatitis C tests for the past 5 years; however, results were not provided until one week after the test was taken. Now the test is rapid which means anyone could know their status in 20 minutes.

Walk-in testing is not available for this rapid testing. Anyone who would like to have a Hepatitis C test must make an appointment by calling 423.265.2273, and he or she must also take an HIV test.

Chattanooga CARES recently received funding to purchase the new Hep C tests through Genentech. The tests are produced by OraQuick which is the same manufacturer for the Rapid HIV test; however, the funding for the HIV tests is provided through the state of Tennessee.

The test is quick and simple and involves collecting a small drop of blood. The sample then rests in the testing solution with a testing strip that will read the results in 20 minutes. Those that test positive for Hepatitis C will then be directed to the proper care.

For more information on Rapid Hep C testing, Chattanooga CARES or any of our upcoming events, please call (423) 648-9912 or send an email to