Partner Services

Partner Services Basics

If you are diagnosed with HIV or certain sexually transmitted diseases, Partner Services is a process by which your sex and/or needle sharing partners are notified that they may have been exposed to an infection and need to be tested.

Types of Partner Services

Image of a phone screen receiving a phone callAnonymous Third-Party Notification

This is when a professional health counselor notifies your partners. You provide identifying and locating information only. Your name and identity are never shared with your partners. Most people choose this method as it is the only method that provides anonymity.

Dual Disclosure

Dual disclosure is when you notify your partner in the presence of and with the assistance of a counselor. The counselor supports you during the process and can answer questions from your partner.

Self-Disclosure

Self-disclosure is when you notify your partners and bring them in or encourage them to come in for testing and treatment. A counselor will help you plan and practice what you are going to say. If your partners don’t come in for services, however, you will be asked to identify them so the health department can contact them. Some people prefer self-disclosure; however, it does not protect your identity, and you have to deal with the possible negative reactions from your partners.

Got a text saying you may have been exposed to an STI or HIV?

Did you get a text saying you should get tested for HIV or other STDs from a blocked number?  Or from a phone number that doesn’t accept text replies or calls back?  The HIV and STD programs at VDH do not send text messages like that.  There are other websites and apps that do.  To remain anonymous, sometimes a person may use a text service to let a partner know they need to get tested.

If you get a text like that and think you might be at risk, it’s a good idea to see your doctor or go to your local health department for testing.  The only way to know for sure if you have HIV or another STD is by getting tested.  Many times, STDs show no signs or symptoms, or they are mistaken for something else.

Frequently Asked Questions/FAQs

Last Updated: April 23, 2025