ISSUE 01  ·  FOUNDED 2026  ·  A NONPROFIT CLINICFLORIDA · COMMUNITY CARE
[ 01 — MISSION ]

QUESTIONS.ANSWERED.NO JUDGMENT.

[ THE WHY ]

Walking into a clinic — or even opening a page like this — can bring up a lot of questions. That's normal. Below are the answers our patients ask for most: testing, treatment, cost, privacy, and what actually happens when you walk through our door.

Plain language, no medical jargon. Every background, immigration status, and identity — the same respect, every time.

PREFER TO TALK?
MON–FRI 9AM–6PM
Confidential
Your Privacy Protected]
Affordable
Sliding Fee Available
Timely
Most Results in 24 Hours
501(c)(3)
TAX-DEDUCTIBLE

01

Getting Started

From booking to your first visit

What services does Core Life Link provide?

We provide confidential HIV, STI, and Hepatitis C testing, prevention, treatment, and support. That includes PrEP and PEP, case management, immediate linkage to care, patient navigation, transportation help, insurance and medication assistance, community education, and referrals for behavioral health, housing, workforce development, veteran services, and more.

Our goal is simple: compassionate, judgment-free care, and connecting you with everything you need — not just what’s on the surface.

Do I need an appointment?

Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are always welcome when we can fit you in. Same-day appointments may be available depending on the provider.

If you’d like to confirm availability first, give us a call before you head over.

Can I receive treatment the same day?

Whenever it’s medically appropriate, we try to provide same-day evaluation, treatment, and immediate linkage to care.

Some services depend on lab results or provider availability, but our goal is always to get your care started as fast as possible.

Can I bring my partner?

Yes. We welcome partners to take part in care together whenever it makes sense. Couples testing, education, and prevention services can support healthier relationships and better-informed decisions for both of you.

Do you offer telehealth appointments?

Yes, depending on the service and provider availability. Contact our office and we’ll let you know whether your visit can be done virtually.

What should I bring to my appointment?

To help us see you as quickly as possible, please bring:

— A photo ID, if you have one

— Your insurance card, if applicable

— A list of current medications, including vitamins and supplements

— Any referral forms or relevant medical records

— Payment, if applicable

— Sliding Fee Scale documents (recent pay stubs or a W-2), if you’re applying for reduced-cost care

Not sure what you need? Just call us beforehand — we’re glad to help.

What happens during my first visit?

Your first visit is about getting to know your health needs and building a plan that works for you. Depending on what brings you in, it may include:

— Registration and paperwork

— A conversation about your medical history and health concerns

— Basic measurements like blood pressure and weight

— HIV, STI, or Hepatitis C testing, if appropriate

— Lab services

— A discussion of your treatment and prevention options

— Case management and referrals to other services, if needed

Visiting a new provider can feel like a lot. Our team is committed to treating you with dignity, compassion, and respect — every step of the way.

02

Hepatitis C

Testing, treatment, and ongoing care

Do you treat Hepatitis C?

Yes. We provide Hepatitis C testing, evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support. Our team can also help you access medication and connect with additional healthcare services if you need them.

03

HIV & STI Testing

Who should test, how often, and what results mean

Who should get tested for HIV?

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine healthcare.

Depending on your personal risk factors, you may benefit from testing more often. Our team can help you figure out a schedule that makes sense for you.

Do I still need to get tested if I identify as heterosexual (straight)?

Yes. HIV can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or background.

If you’re not sure how often you should be tested, our providers can help you figure out what’s right for you.

Do I need testing if I don't have any symptoms?

Yes. Many HIV, STI, and Hepatitis C infections don’t cause symptoms, especially early on. Routine testing is one of the best ways to protect your health — and the health of people you care about — even when you feel fine.

How often should I get tested?

It depends on your health history and personal risk factors. Some people only need routine screening every so often; others may benefit from testing every 3 to 12 months.

Our healthcare team will recommend a schedule that fits your life.

How long does an HIV test take?

A rapid HIV test typically gives you results in about 20–30 minutes.

If additional lab testing or confirmatory testing is needed, those results are usually ready within three business days.

What happens if my HIV test is reactive?

A reactive screening result does not automatically mean you have HIV. If your initial test is reactive, we’ll run a confirmatory test to be sure.

If HIV is confirmed, we’ll connect you right away with one of our providers to start treatment, answer your questions, and support you — medically and emotionally. You won’t have to go through this alone.

Can HIV be treated? Is my life over?

No — your life is not over. While there’s currently no cure for HIV, modern treatment (antiretroviral therapy, or ART) allows most people with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

Treatment can bring the virus in your body down to an undetectable level. People with an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit HIV to partners — this is known as U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable.

Early diagnosis and staying on treatment are what make the biggest difference.

Do you treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Yes. We evaluate, diagnose, and treat many common STIs. We also offer education, prevention services, partner notification resources when appropriate, and follow-up care.

04

PrEP & PEP

Medication that helps prevent HIV, before or after exposure

What is PrEP?

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication that helps prevent HIV in people who don’t currently have HIV but may be at higher risk of exposure through sex or injection drug use.

Taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV. It does not protect against other STIs or pregnancy. Our providers can help you decide if PrEP is a good fit for you.

What is PEP?

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is emergency medication used after a possible HIV exposure to lower the risk of infection.

PEP has to be started within 72 hours (3 days) of the exposure and taken exactly as prescribed for 28 days. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact us right away or go to an emergency room.

Some patients may also qualify for DoxyPEP, which can help prevent certain bacterial STIs. Ask one of our providers if it’s right for you.

05

Costs & Financial Assistance

What things cost, and how to get help paying

How much do services cost?

Many of our services are free or offered on a sliding fee scale based on your household income and family size. We also accept many insurance plans, and we help eligible uninsured patients find financial assistance that can reduce or eliminate the cost of care and medication.

Cost should never be the reason you put off your health. We’ll work with you to find a way to make your visit affordable.

What is a Sliding Fee Scale?

A Sliding Fee Scale adjusts what you pay based on your income and family size, so care stays affordable no matter your financial situation.

Our staff will walk you through the application, explain whether you qualify, and let you know about any costs before or during your visit whenever possible.

Can I get tested if I don't have insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Not having insurance should never stop you from getting care here.

Our staff will help you find financial assistance programs and affordable options that fit your situation — no insurance required to walk through our doors.

Do you accept Medicaid and Medicare?

Yes. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and many commercial insurance plans. If you have questions about your specific coverage, just give us a call — we’re happy to check for you.

06

Privacy, Respect & Your Rights

Your rights, your identity, and what stays confidential

Is my visit confidential?

Yes. Your privacy matters to us, deeply.

All medical information, testing, and treatment are handled confidentially, in line with federal and state privacy laws, including HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

Will my culture, beliefs, or identity be respected?

Absolutely. Every person deserves compassionate, respectful, judgment-free healthcare — and we mean everyone.

We welcome people of every race, ethnicity, culture, religion, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, income level, insurance status, and background. Our team is committed to care that respects your values and beliefs, in a space where you feel heard and supported.

What if English isn't my first language?

Just let our staff know. We’re committed to care that’s easy to understand, no matter what language you speak, and we’ll do our best to provide language assistance so you can be fully part of your own healthcare decisions.

I'm under 18. Can I get tested without my parents knowing?

In many situations, yes. Florida law allows minors to consent to certain sexual health services — including HIV and STI testing and treatment — without a parent or guardian’s permission.

Our team will explain your privacy rights and help you understand exactly what you can access confidentially under Florida law. If you’re not sure where you stand, just ask us — we’ll walk you through it respectfully and privately.

I'm undocumented. Can I still receive care?

Yes. Everyone deserves compassionate healthcare, regardless of immigration status. If you have questions about eligibility for specific programs or financial assistance, our team will explain your options and connect you with resources whenever we can.

Will I be judged?

No. Not here.

We know that seeking care — especially for HIV, STIs, Hepatitis C, sexual health, or substance use — can feel intimidating. Our job isn’t to judge you. It’s to care for you.

Every patient is treated with dignity, compassion, confidentiality, and respect, no matter your background or circumstances.

I'm nervous about coming in. What if I'm scared?

That’s completely understandable, and you’re not alone in feeling that way.

Whether you’re worried about a result, a conversation, or simply don’t know what to expect, our team is here to listen, answer questions, protect your privacy, and support you without judgment. We’ll walk you through every step so you can make informed decisions at your own pace.

Taking the first step can be hard. You don’t have to take it alone.

07

Supporting Our Mission

Ways to get involved beyond your own visit

How can I support Core Life Link?

There are a lot of ways to help:

— Make a financial donation

— Volunteer your time

— Attend community events

— Become a community or corporate sponsor

— Donate needed supplies

— Share our mission with the people around you

Every bit of support helps us reach more people with lifesaving testing, treatment, and care.

[ STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? ]

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Testing, prevention, treatment — or just someone to talk it through with. Reach out whenever you're ready. There's no wrong way to start.

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