AHF Makes History with the Nation’s First One-Minute HIV Test Launch

In September 2012, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) made history by becoming the first organization in the nation to roll out the newly approved INSTI one-minute HIV test. This innovative testing method was introduced during a high-profile launch event held at the iconicAbbey nightclub in West Hollywood.

Glee’s Dot-Marie Jones attends the first community-based HIV testing program in the United States to use a revolutionary HIV test that provides results to people in just one minute at a gala event taking place at the Abbey in West Hollywood on Saturday, September 22, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif.

As part of the celebration, AHF deployed five mobile testing vans throughout the area. Anyone who got tested during the event was automatically entered into a drawing for a chance to win a convertible Fiat 500—a car that was memorably filled with condoms to emphasize the importance of safe sex.

The event included celebrity guests, including Gleestar Dot-Marie Jones and Charlie David, host of E! Entertainment Television. To underscore the “one-minute” theme of the new HIV test, AHF organized a series of quick and engaging activities throughout the night. These included screenings of one-minute films, a one-minute cash grab booth, and a themed photo booth experience.

General view of atmosphere at the first community-based HIV testing program in the United States to use a revolutionary HIV test that provides results to people in just one minute at a gala event taking place at the Abbey in West Hollywood on Saturday, September 22, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif.

Whitney Engeran-Cordova, who now serves as AHF’s Vice President of Public Health, highlighted the significance of this advancement, stating:

“The availability of the INSTI 60-second rapid test in the U.S. is a game-changer. It will allow for large-scale testing events and introduce new possibilities for point-of-care testing in settings like emergency rooms. Most importantly, it paves the way for innovative approaches to reach more people with HIV testing.”

Actor Charlie David attends the first community-based HIV testing program in the United States to use a revolutionary HIV test that provides results to people in just one minute at a gala event taking place at the Abbey in West Hollywood on Saturday, September 22, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif.

This landmark event not only marked a major leap forward in rapid HIV testing but also showcased AHF’s commitment to accessibility, innovation, and community engagement in the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.

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