QUESTIONS.ANSWERED.NO JUDGMENT.
Walking into a clinic — or even opening a page like this one — can bring up a lot of questions. That's normal, and you're not alone in asking them. Below, we've answered what our patients ask us most: testing, treatment, cost, privacy, and what actually happens when you walk through our door.
Everything here is written in plain language, without medical jargon. We serve people of every background, immigration status, and identity — with the same respect, every time. If you don't see your question, our team is one call away, and that conversation stays private too.
Plain language, no medical jargon. Every background, immigration status, and identity — the same respect, every time.
PREFER TO TALK?Getting Started
From booking to your first visitWhat 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.
Hepatitis C
Testing, treatment, and ongoing careDo 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.
HIV & STI Testing
Who should test, how often, and what results meanWho 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.
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.
PrEP & PEP
Medication that helps prevent HIV, before or after exposureWhat 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?
HIV PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is emergency medication that can help prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP should be started as soon as possible—and no later than 72 hours after exposure. The sooner you start, the better. Treatment is typically taken for 28 days.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, don’t wait for symptoms or a routine appointment. Call us right away. If we are closed or unable to see you promptly, visit an emergency department or urgent care and ask about HIV PEP.
PEP may be recommended after certain types of exposure, including sexual contact, sharing injection equipment, sexual assault, or other situations where HIV exposure may have occurred. Our clinical team can evaluate your situation and help determine whether PEP is appropriate for you.
What is DoxyPEP?
DoxyPEP is doxycycline taken after sex to reduce the chance of some bacterial STIs, especially syphilis and chlamydia. It does not prevent HIV, herpes, HPV, or pregnancy and does not replace HIV PEP or PrEP.
CDC recommends discussing DoxyPEP with homosexual, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and transgender women who had syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea in the previous 12 months. For other patients, a clinician may use individualized shared decision-making. DoxyPEP is not right for everyone; it requires a prescription, instructions on safe use, and follow-up STI testing.
Costs & Financial Assistance
What things cost, and how to get help payingHow 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 insurance?
Yes. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, VA, and commercial insurance. Because coverage can vary depending on your insurance plan and the services you receive, we encourage you to call us at (844) 444-3897 or contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage before your visit.
If privacy is a concern, you may also want to ask your insurance provider whether using your coverage could result in an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) or other communication being sent to the policyholder.
Privacy, Respect & Your Rights
Your rights, your identity, and what stays confidentialIs 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.
Supporting Our Mission
Ways to get involved beyond your own visitHow 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.
NO MATCHES. Try another keyword.
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.