In 2003, SECCO was using urine-based drug testing but was running into obstacles. The Company wanted a more flexible and efficient option to administer drug testing on a regular basis. They needed a method that would be easy to administer at multiple off-site locations, and take less time out of a working day.

Since switching to Intercept oral fluid drug testing in 2004, SECCO is now able to quickly and efficiently collect oral samples.

“Intercept oral fluid drug testing provides us the ability to quickly, efficiently and accurately obtain drug testing samples in a field based work environment,” said Shannon Costill, Human Resources & Special Projects Coordinator at SECCO. “One of the main reasons we starting using Intercept was due to the flexibility and time-savings that it provides us with.”

Because it is a contracting company, only about one-third of SECCO’s team member’s work in the office – the rest are in the field on job sites. SECCO needed a testing option that would allow it the ability to obtain testing samples in the field.

“With Intercept, we are able to efficiently obtain the testing samples where we work, whether it on a jobsite or in the office, without having to drive another facility and wait in line to collect a urine sample,” explained Costill.

By collecting samples at the job sites where the work is being performed, SECCO saves hours of time (that would be needed to travel back and forth to a urine collection site), and saves itself the associated costs, as well. After the samples are collected, they are quickly transported to a laboratory for testing which provides the confidence and accuracy of a laboratory-based screen and confirmation service.

“The flexibility of Intercept testing is a significant benefit for SECCO,” says Costill. “Being able to conveniently obtain samples on the job site, and being able to do it quickly, are the main priorities for us.”

Finally, Costill said that SECCO’s contractors appreciate the oral swab approach: “Taking a mouth swab is a more dignified way to conduct drug testing, compared with taking a urine sample. Our team members appreciate the convenience and ease of this method.”

Today, SECCO continues to be very satisfied with the decision to switch to Intercept Oral Fluid Drug Testing.

“In terms of employee drug testing, convenience and flexibility are very important to us, and Intercept is able to provide us with these benefits in a way that other drug testing methods are not,” said Costill. “We would recommend Intercept to any company that wants to save time, offer increased convenience and flexibility, and still achieve highly accurate results.”

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The campaign aimed to increase awareness around hepatitis C testing and bring attention to the causes and treatment of the disease. As part of the campaign, several Major League Baseball ballparks throughout the country offered free OraQuick® rapid hepatitis C testing this past summer. The free testing took place in Houston, Chicago and St. Louis this past summer, at the home baseball stadiums of the Astros, Cubs and Cardinals.

In each city the events were a collaborative effort between the local departments of health, the regional chapter of the ALF and volunteers from local community based organizations. Both a baseball celebrity and a local doctor also supported the events in each city. The first event took place at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Fans had the opportunity to meet Cubs sports commentator Keith Moreland at the testing. He also took an OraQuick HCV Rapid Antibody Test to show Cubs fans how easy it is to get tested. In Houston, Astros manager Brad Mills participated in the campaign, and in St. Louis it was all-star Lance Berkman.

"Hep C is a serious disease," said St. Louis Cardinals player Lance Berkman in a media interview. "Together with the Cardinals, I am spreading the word for people to understand they may have this disease and not know it. About 3.2 million Americans are infected and many are unaware. I am urging people to get tested now because there is treatment available. Go to allabouthepc.com/baseball for more information about the disease."

"One of my family members was infected with Hep C, so I saw first-hand how crucial it is for people to be made aware of this fatal disease," said Chicago Cubs analyst, Keith Moreland. "That's why I've joined the Cubs, Merck, the American Liver Foundation, OraSure and Coalition of Positive Health Empowerment, as part of Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C program, which aims to encourage people in Chicago to get educated on the facts and tested for hepatitis C. You can find out if you have chronic hepatitis C from a simple blood test. Come down to the ballpark and get tested. You can find more information at allabouthepc.com/baseball."

"I was stunned to hear that Hep C can lay dormant in a person for years. In some cases, by the time the person is to find out they have it, it is too late. I am stepping up to the plate against Hep C because it is a cause I believe in," said Brad Mills, Manager of the Houston Astros. "People need to know, if they get tested, there is treatment available. At Minute Maid on select dates, we are having screenings. Testing is simple and confidential. Together with the Astros, I want to make people aware of the seriousness of this disease."

The testing events in each city were a success. Fans also had the unique opportunity to meet players or managers fat all three stadiums.

Houston Astros' manager Brad Mills gets tested for hepatitis C as part of the Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C initiative.

St. Louis Cardinals' outfielder Lance Berkman meets fans at the Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C initiative.

Keith Moreland, former Philadelphia Philly and Chicago Cubs ballplayer, now color commentator for the Cubs, signs an autograph outside Wrigley Field

The "Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C" banners in Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros.

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This year, October 12 was the official launch date in New York City. The day began with a press conference at City Hall, where speakers such as Dr. Monica Sweeney (Assistant Commissioner – NYC Department of Health), Guillermo Chacon (President of the Latino Commission on AIDS), Robert Jackson (Council Member), and Melissa Mark-Viverito (Council Member) all spoke about the importance of getting testing and knowing one's status. After the press conference, a unique campaign, called "Take The Train? Take The Test!", led by the Latino Commission on AIDS and over 30 community partners including OraSure, offered free OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid oral fluid HIV testing at 25 different subway stations across all 5 boroughs of New York City.

Right now, Latinos continue to be disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic as they comprise over 24.3% percent of HIV/AIDS cases nationwide (CDC).  In New York City, there are 94,000 people known to be living with HIV/AIDS -- of that total number, 28% are Hispanic/Latino -- and New York is the state with the highest number of Latinos living with HIV/AIDS.

The video below includes highlights from the kickoff day events, including the press conference and a site on the "Take the Train? Take the Test!" campaign.

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Both companies share a common capability and passion to develop best-in-class oral fluid-based solutions. DNA Genotek is a recognized leader in the nucleic acid collection market, and OraSure is excited to be acquiring it and to be entering into to the molecular diagnostics market.

"We are delighted to have the opportunity to acquire DNA Genotek which is a recognized leader in the nucleic acid collection market and fits soundly with OraSure's strategic goals and objectives. We targeted entry into the US $4 billion molecular diagnostics market given the magnitude and rapid growth profile of the segment," said Douglas A. Michels, President and CEO of OraSure Technologies.

"Our companies both endeavor to provide high-quality, non-invasive sample collection devices and the combination of our resources will significantly enhance our ability to deliver industry leading solutions to our customers. The two organizations are complementary from a technology and people perspective," said Ian Curry, President and CEO of DNA Genotek Inc.

During a team meeting on Monday, Douglas Michels shared the announcement with the OraSure employees.

OraSure employees convene in the lobby of its southside headquarters in Bethlehem, Pa. as OraSure President and CEO Doug Michels shares the announcement with Company employees that OraSure will be entering the molecular diagnostics space through the acquisition of DNA Genotek.

Doug Michels, President and CEO of OraSure Technologies shares the announcement with Company employees that OraSure will be entering the molecular diagnostics space through the acquisition of DNA Genotek.

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This year, the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA), the CDC, OraSure Technologies, mayors and government officials from around the U.S., Walgreens Pharmacies, and others, came together to hold and promote various events in New York City and across the country for National HIV Testing Day, including:

Opened the NASDAQ MarketSite
OraSure Technolgoies opened the NASDAQ Stock Exchange on Monday, June 27^th, with the help and support of Frank Oldham, President and CEO of NAPWA, Johnny Ford, founder of the World Conference of Mayors and former mayor of Tuskegee, AL, and Mayor Robert L. Bowser of East Orange, NJ, president of the National Black Conference of Mayors – among many others.

rom left to right; Ron Spair; Catherine Abate; Frank J. Oldham, Jr.; Marjorie Hill, PhD; Douglas Michels; Mayor Ronald K. Davis; Mayor Robert L. Bowser; Mayor Johnny Ford

Expert Panel on Rapid HIV Testing at NASDAQ
Following the opening of the NASDAQ stock exchange, OraSure hosted a panel of experts who have successfully integrated routine rapid HIV testing in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings, who discussed and shared their best practices. The expert panel included: Dr. Yvette Calderon (Jacobi Medical Center – Bronx, NY), Dr. Susan Enaharo (Morris Heights Health Center – Bronx, NY), Will Lyons (Georgia Department of Health), Nancy Miles (Wishard Hospital – Indianapolis, IN) and Dr. Luis Freddy Molano (Community Healthcare Network – New York, NY).

Free Rapid HIV Testing in Times Square
The Community Healthcare Network (CHN) offered free, rapid HIV testing with OraQuick ADVANCE® from its mobile HIV testing van in Times Square, on Monday. OraSure's President and CEO Douglas Michels, along with Johnny Ford, founder of the World Conference of Mayors and former mayor of Tuskegee, AL, Mayor Robert L. Bowser of East Orange, NJ, and Mayor Ronald K. Davis of Prichard, Alabama.

From left to right: Mayor Ronald K. Davis; Mayor Johnny Ford; Mayor Robert L. Bowser; Douglas Michels

Walgreens Providing Free HIV Testing
OraSure also partnered with Greater Than AIDS, the CDC, local departments of health and community-based organizations across the U.S. to provide free screenings for HIV at select Walgreens retail pharmacies in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, New Orleans, Oakland and San Francisco. (Full release: http://media-newswire.com/release_1153445.html.)

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Meaning "peace" or "safe place" in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, the program was kicked off on July 21, 2009 as part of City Uprising, a four-day event sponsored by the Gallery Church Baltimore. During this initial event nearly two years ago, volunteers from nine states and local 11 community organizations worked together with a goal of testing 1,000 Baltimore citizens for HIV.

Current Testing Initiatives
Project SHALEM works to mobilize the community in an effort to prevent and test for HIV, and provide linkage to care when necessary. The project also provides wrap-around services such as housing, substance abuse rehabilitation, HIV education, case management and interaction with people living will with HIV.

As of last year, up to December 2010, Project SHALEM provided HIV testing to over 3,200 people in Baltimore, with a linkage to care rate of 67%.

Testing Goals for 2011
This year, the organization has set a goal to increase and expand their current HIV testing initiatives throughout the city.

1. Continue successful engagement of Baltimore City and its surrounding communities through its existing 5 sustainable testing sites and participation in City Uprising 2011.
2. Grow its Baltimore City initiative to include 3 large-scale city-wide testing events throughout the year as well as 3 more sustainable sites.
3. Expand and replicate the model to other hard-hit cities in the United States through innovative partnerships and engagement of key stakeholders to meet local needs.

This year, for National HIV Testing Day, Project SHALEM is taking part in an annual collaborative effort called City Uprising HIV Outreach Day in Baltimore. The event takes place on June 28^th, the day after National HIV Testing Day. 2011 marks the third year that Project SHALEM will be participating in this citywide activity to help as many people as possible learn their HIV status. There will be seven testing sites throughout the city, over 10 agencies involved and hundreds of volunteers participating.

By working with OraSure Technologies, and providing Baltimore citizens with rapid HIV testing results, Project SHALEM and OraSure are committed to helping more individuals know their status and be connected to the care and treatment needed to live longer, healthier lives.

For more information please contact Project SHALEM at projectshalem@ihv.umaryland.edu

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The website includes downloadable event marketing materials, such as posters, banners, and palm cards and public relations materials such as template press releases, media alerts and PSAs. There are also informative materials about HIV and reasons to test that can be distributed at events.

The site also features a section on rapid HIV testing programs across the country – and highlights how these programs are successfully conducting HIV testing initiatives using the OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid HIV test. Currently, these Featured Programs include the Philadelphia FIGHT project, Project SHALEM and The Chase Brexton Clinic in Baltimore and The Community Healthcare Network in New York. Additional programs will be featured in the coming months.

OraSure Technologies is very excited to offer its customers this resource to help plan and conduct successful rapid HIV testing events as a part of their overall HIV prevention and testing efforts.

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Hosted by Congressman Mike Honda, the congressional briefing featured Congressman Charlie Dent and several others, and was held to inform Members of Congress and their staff about the long–awaited report from HHS detailing the federal government's strategy for combating hepatitis B and C in the United States – as well as show and pledge support.

Following this pledge of support, the plan was then publicly released by Assistant Secretary of Health Howard Koh, Dr. Kevin Fenton of the CDC and other government officials.

The plan, "Combating the Silent Epidemic: US Department of Health and Human Services Action Plan for the Prevention, Care and Treatment of Viral Hepatitis", is a response to the 2010 Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, which highlighted the barriers that have impeded efforts for hepatitis prevention and control. The plan outlines a comprehensive action plan to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, as well as create opportunities to train health professionals to diagnose, treat, vaccinate, and ultimately save lives.

"These infections have fueled a tragic cascade of human suffering," said Howard K. Koh, MD, MPH, in a press release issued by HHS. "The new HHS action plan on viral hepatitis represents an unprecedented call to action for better education, treatment and prevention."

The action plan draws attention to the existing need to test and diagnose the 3.5 to 5.3 million Americans who are currently living with viral hepatitis. According to the report, the integration of rapid point-of-care testing will be an important part in the plan. The report also highlights how "rapid point-of-care tests are also advantageous because they can be used simultaneously with HIV rapid testing for persons at risk for both HCV and HIV infections".

"The Viral Hepatitis Action Plan is a significant and important step in responding effectively to this silent epidemic," says Douglas Michels, President and CEO of OraSure Technologies. "The first step in combating this disease, as outlined in the Action Plan, is to identify the millions of Americans at risk for hepatitis and link them to available treatment and care. By providing the only rapid, point-of-care hepatitis C test available in the United States, we hope to significantly contribute to this plan to fight the disease."

OraSure's OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test is the first and only FDA-approved rapid test for the detection of antibodies to the hepatitis C virus and is currently classified as a moderately complex test which can be used by approximately 40,000 laboratories certified as meeting certain quality and training requirements under CLIA. OraSure has recently submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") an application for a waiver under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 ("CLIA"), for use with venous whole blood and fingerstick whole blood specimens.

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Penn State Hershey searched for an alternative to lab-based urine testing that could offer increased flexibility, high accuracy and accommodate the different types of hires they experience. In January 2008, the medical center chose to supplement its drug program with OraSure's Intercept Oral Fluid Drug Test. Since adopting Intercept, Penn State Hershey is now able to provide candidates with a simple and flexible alternative to off-site urine testing.

"The reaction to the Intercept oral fluid testing has been very positive," Richard Welsh, Director of HR Recruitment, said. "The primary reasons are the flexibility it provides and that it allows for greater dignity in the collection process while achieving highly accurate results. Compared with other collection methods, it's just easier to put a swab in your mouth."

That's saying a lot, given the volume of drug testing the medical center performs in a given year. Penn State Hershey is one of the leading teaching and research hospitals in the country. At any given time, Penn State Hershey employs more than 7,500 individuals and hires close to 1,000 external candidates per year.

Like other healthcare organizations, Penn State Hershey has a strict policy in place to ensure that 100 percent of new hires undergo pre-employment drug screening before they begin their first day of work. From the time that they accept the job offer, candidates have three days to complete a drug screen.

Prior to 2008, Penn State Hershey was relying solely on a urine-based drug screening process. New hires would either have to complete this test at an off-site urine collection facility or at the on-site employee health office. However, according to Welsh, Penn State Hershey was running into certain challenges with this program.

"One challenge we faced with our urine-based drug screening program was that our employee health office simply does not have the bandwidth to handle the volume of candidates we hire," Welsh explained. "It was also extremely difficult to screen the mass hires of medical residents each June, when approximately 170 residents are hired and start their residency."

Accommodating short-notice hires was another challenge.

"The urine collection facilities often have limited evening and weekend business hours, so we were running into issues with the candidate's ability to complete the drug screen within our three day window," he continued.

And finally, every once in a while, there was a case where a job candidate was "simply unable to provide a urine sample", Welsh said. "We wanted to come up with an alternative solution."

Penn State Hershey turned to OraSure and the Company's Intercept Oral Fluid Drug Test, an FDA-cleared laboratory-based oral fluid drug testing system that enables accurate testing for drugs of abuse. Its 3-step (swab, snap and seal) collection process is fast and easy-to-administer, making it ideal for workplace drug testing. Once a sample is collected, the test is sent to a SAMSHA-certified lab for analysis and confirmation of results.

At Penn State Hershey, Intercept solved the problem of screening 160+ resident hires in a short time period; it is now as simple as handing out the saliva collection devices.

"Because candidates actually administer the test to themselves, it's easier and more efficient to screen multiple people at the same time. Now, they can just sit down in a group and get it all done at once," Welsh described.

The Intercept Oral Fluid Drug Test provides greater flexibility for short-notice hires as well, because collecting a saliva sample is not contingent on business hours of the off-site urine collection facilities – local candidates are able to drive over to the Penn State Hershey recruitment office whenever it is convenient for them.

Welsh also noted that out-of-town candidates could complete a drug screen using the Intercept test while they are at the facility for their job interview. This "opportunity screen" is an option that many appreciate.

Finally, in the event that a candidate is simply unable to provide a urine sample, Penn State Hershey is able to offer a simple, quick alternative to complete the screen.

Welsh described the reaction of the candidates screened with Intercept as overwhelmingly positive. "Candidates appreciate the ease and flexibility of the test, and the fact that there is much more discretion in collecting the oral-fluid sample, compared with other methods."

He also mentions the consistency and accuracy of the Intercept Oral Fluid Drug Test, and the OraSure service, noting that in "the three years Penn State Hershey has worked with OraSure Technologies we have never had any issues with the billing and results tracking, and they have never lost a sample."

After three years, Welsh is a very satisfied customer. By incorporating the Intercept Drug Test, Penn State Hershey is able to provide the flexibility, speed and accuracy it was striving for with its drug-screening program.

Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

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BMC serves a diverse community and is disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS, which currently affects nearly 15,000 people in the Boston metropolitan area Although Black residents represent only 5.5 percent of the EMA population, they account for 31 percent of total AIDS cases and 35 percent of new AIDS cases. Hispanic residents, who are 7.7 percent of the EMA population, account for 21 percent of total AIDS cases.

In 2003, to help combat this growing epidemic, BMC launched Project Trust, a rapid HIV testing initiative developed in conjunction with BMC’s Department of Laboratory Medicine and Massachusetts Department of Public Health aimed at increasing HIV testing across the city of Boston. Project Trust was launched with three key objectives: find all HIV positive patients in the region, link all HIV positive patients to care, and prevent new cases of HIV.

Project TRUST is implemented in four different areas of the hospital: the public health STD clinic, the inpatient clinic, the emergency department and the Project TRUST drop-in center, a free-standing clinic.

All testing is conducted with the OraQuick ADVANCE HIV-1/2 Antibody test, providing results to patients in 20 minutes. The testing is performed by trained counselors who both administer the rapid HIV test and counsel the patient at the point of care. All testing is overseen by BMC’s Department of Laboratory Medicine to ensure regulatory compliance.

To date, Project Trust has been a great success, achieving its key objectives of identifying more people with HIV, testing more individuals for HIV and linking HIV positive individuals to immediate care. The Project tests approximately 7,000 people annually, and since the launch of the project, the linkage to care for HIV positive individuals at BMC has increased from 85% to 100%. Additionally, the reaction from patients and the community has been very positive and supportive.

"Through Project Trust, we have been able to identify people who may have never known that they had HIV – because they did not fit a specific risk profile, they did not seek regular medical care, or for one of many other potential reasons," said Jo Ann Crain, Point of Care Specialist, Dept. of Lab Medicine, Boston Medical Center. "Additionally, we have been able to provide those who test negative with their results in 20 minutes, instead of the traditional two-week wait. The program has been very well-received by the patients, the hospital staff, and the South End community."

BMC attributes the success of the program to the collaborative effort across hospital departments, the use of OraQuick ADVANCE, a dedicated, well-trained staff and a culture of support around the entire hospital and from the Massachusetts Department of Health.

"Project Trust continues to exceed our expectations in terms of our ability to identify persons with HIV and immediately connect them to care," said Jo Ann Crain, Point of Care Specialist, Dept. of Lab Medicine, Boston Medical Center. "It is a model of true collaboration between our hospital, the city and state, and OraSure Technologies, who provides excellent support throughout the program."

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The video diaries, featuring young adults being tested for HIV, show the use of the OraQuick® ADVANCE rapid oral fluid test. The videos follow the individuals throughout the process and demonstrate how easy it is to be tested with OraSure's oral fluid technology. In the weeks surrounding World AIDS Day, the videos were distributed and aired with all the MTV affiliates worldwide, and were also posted to the OraSure homepage to raise awareness for the global cause.

The first video features an MTV ambassador and takes place at Out of the Closet, one of AIDS Healthcare Foundation's testing locations in Los Angeles. The second video takes place at Barts in the United Kingdom and features two employees of MTV International.

Watch the Videos

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In partnership with OraSure Technologies, the Community Health Network (CHN) provided free OraQuick ADVANCE® HIV testing throughout the day at CHN's mobile testing van on World AIDS Day, December 1. World AIDS Day has become one of the most recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed on, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services. A photo of OraSure's President and CEO Douglas A. Michels, taking an OraQuick test at the CHN mobile van, was featured in the Wall Street Journal on December 2.

OraSure Technologies President and CEO Douglas A. Michels took the company’s rapid HIV test, provided free outside NASDAQ in honor of World AIDS Day, after helping open the market on Wednesday.

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At the NASDAQ MarketSite, New York State Senator Thomas K. Duane and Assemblyman Darryl C. Towns issued a proclamation on behalf of the State of New York honoring the late Dennis deLeon, the Founder and former Executive Director of the Latino Commission on AIDS, and one of the primary champions of the recent New York State HIV testing law (S8227 and A.11487), which encourages routine HIV testing for all people aged 13 to 64.

Routine HIV testing is critical in New York as more than 107,000 New Yorkers are living with HIV, and there are thousands more who don't know they're infected (NYC Dept of Health). Locally, OraSure supported two HIV testing vans in Times Square and Washington Square through the Community Health Network and Planned Parenthood respectively to help spread the message of awareness and enable local citizens to learn their status.

Nationwide, OraSure supported more than 150 rapid HIV testing sites in 25+ states, as well as supported numerous testing events throughout the world, in recognition of World AIDS Day.

December 1, 2010 marked the 23rd annual World AIDS Day, a global effort declared by the World Health Organization in 1988 to highlight the seriousness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and focus the world's attention on HIV/AIDS for one day each year. Since its launch, World AIDS Day has progressively become one of the most successful international days for raising awareness of a global issue.

OraSure’s CEO Douglas Michels and Company employees join key legislators, customers and partners at the NASDAQ Marketsite in ringing the bell on December 1st in honor of the 23rd annual World AIDS Day.

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Click here to view award ceremony

"We are honored to be recognized by Popular Science as an innovative company that is making revolutionary strides in helping to identify more at risk individuals infected with hepatitis C," said Douglas A. Michels. "This award is a reflection of OraSure's dedication to improving healthcare around the globe through our diagnostic technologies, and in particular, our OraQuick® rapid platform, on which our rapid HCV and HIV tests are built."

Hepatitis C continues to be a growing problem with an estimated 180 million people worldwide who are chronically infected with HCV. According to the World Health Organization, most cases of HCV infection are currently undiagnosed and up to 80 percent of HCV-positive individuals show no signs or symptoms.

OraSure's President and CEO Douglas A. Michels accepts Best of What's New Award from Popular Science's Editor-in-Chief Mark Jannot. Left to right: Mark Jannot, New York State Assemblyman Darryl C. Towns, New York State Senator Thomas K. Duane, Douglas A. Michels, and Catherine Abate, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Community Health Network.

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Louisiana ranks fourth in the nation for AIDS case rates per capita, while Baton Rouge as a city ranks second overall and New Orleans follows close behind at third (2008, CDC).

By offering HIV testing at the Bayou Classic game, the Louisiana Office of Public Health hopes to decrease stigma of HIV and present the message that testing for HIV is important and simple: "It's just like getting your blood pressure and glucose screening," explained testing staff at the event.

"If people with HIV have the virus diagnosed early, they are able to receive treatment and care in advance to delay the onset of AIDS," said DHH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "Early diagnosis also gives us the opportunity to provide outreach and education, helping those with HIV better understand how they can avoid spreading the virus to others."

At a press conference prior to the HIV testing event, DeAnn Gruber, PhD, LCSW –Administrative Director, Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Office of Public Health HIV-AIDS Program, talks to local media about the importance of getting tested.

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The Hyacinth AIDS Foundation recognized Douglas Michels for making rapid HIV testing available and affordable to millions of people worldwide.

Michels has dedicated his career to advances in the healthcare industry, particularly in the areas of HIV, Hepatitis and Drugs of Abuse diagnostics. His recognition is a testament to the work that OraSure Technologies has done to advance HIV diagnostics on a national and global scale.

Among other local leaders honored were Congressman Frank Pallone for helping secure over $1.5 billion in federal funds for the fight against AIDS and Laurence Ganges from the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services for working to assure that people living with HIV/AIDS in New Jersey are connected to care and have access to medical and mental health care.

The event was a tremendous success with 175 guests in attendance, raising over $100,000.

New Jersey currently ranks 5th in the nation in HIV infection and 3rd in the proportion of women who are HIV positive.

From left to right, Hyacinth Trustee Dr. Bryan Baugh, The Hyacinth Award recipient Douglas Michels and Hyacinth Executive Director Kathy Ahearn-O'Brien. Pictured at the Hyacinth AIDS Foundation 25th Anniversary Gala and Silent Auction.

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In the U.S., there are an estimated 4.1 million Americans, or 1.6 percent of the population, that are or have been infected with HCV. According to the World Health Organization, most cases of HCV infection are currently undiagnosed and up to 80 percent of HCV-positive individuals show no signs or symptoms. The OraQuick HCV Test has the potential to significantly further efforts to quickly diagnose Hepatitis C- enabling patients to receive treatment before HCV progresses to liver disease. The Popular Science issue hits newsstands today.

"For 23 years, Popular Science has honored the innovations that surprise and amaze us − those that make a positive impact on our world today and challenge our views of what's possible in the future." said Mark Jannot, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science. "The Best of What's New Award is the magazine's top honor, and the 100 winners – chosen from among thousands of entrants – represent the highest level of achievement in their fields. We congratulate OraSure and its employees on this accomplishment."

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Observed on Friday, October 15, 2010, NLAAD is a national day of awareness and prevention against HIV/AIDS in the Latino community. With the theme, Save a Life, It May be your Own. Get Tested for HIV, NLAAD is a call to action for Latinos to get tested for HIV and take a stand, as a cohesive community, against this devastating epidemic.

Across the U.S., Latinos and Hispanics continue to be disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Latinos comprise over 27% percent of the NYC populations and 32% of HIV/AIDS cases (NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene).

OraSure Technologies supported NLAAD through the donation of OraQuick® ADVANCE rapid oral fluid HIV tests to community health organizations across the country. Through this donation, many of the participating organizations were able to offer free oral fluid HIV testing to the public.

The press conference held at City Hall on October 13, 2010 brought City Council Members, community leaders, health educators, advocates and people living with HIV/AIDS together in an effort to call attention to the importance of HIV testing and prevention in the Latino community.

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This means that New Yorkers can expect to be offered an HIV test when they receive health-related services in a primary care setting or a hospital, either as inpatients or as emergency-room patients. The new law also simplifies the process of informed consent. Under the state's old law, patients could not receive HIV tests unless they first provided specific written consent. Under the new law, patients can consent to a rapid HIV test by signing a general consent for medical care or by having a documented verbal exchange with the provider who orders the test.

"By making HIV testing a routine part of health care, this legislation will increase HIV testing rates, letting people learn their status and begin treatment at an earlier stage, which can significantly improve the length and quality of life and help reduce transmission of the disease," said Governor Paterson in a recent press release.

According to the NYC Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene, more than 107,000 New Yorkers are living with HIV, but thousands more don't know they're infected. Now with rapid oral fluid HIV testing, routine screening will enable HIV positive individuals to get their results in 20 minutes and linked immediately to care.

For additional information on the new legislation, click here.

Click here to view videos from the following individuals/organizations in New York:

• Dr. Monica Sweeney – NYC Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene
• Yvette Calderon – Jacobi Medical Center
• Dr. Freddy Molano – Community Healthcare Network

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NLAAD is a nationwide call to action for Latinos to protect their lives and the lives of those they love by getting tested and learning about HIV. With the theme, "Save a life. It may be your own," NLAAD is the culmination of a month of activities designed to create action and awareness about the importance of HIV testing and prevention in the Latino community. Latinos continue to be disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. They comprise over 24.3% percent of HIV/AIDS cases nationwide (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

This year's events will kick off on September 23rd with a Congressional Hearing in Washington, D.C. addressing Health Reform and a National HIV/AIDS Strategy for Latino/Hispanic Communities.

The Latino Commission on AIDS will also sponsor a testing event and press conference in New York the week of October 11th. Special guests at the event may include the 2010 Miss Universe, Jimena Navarrete of Mexico. The 2009 Miss Dominican Republic U.S., Mariela Lucas, attended last year's event and took an OraQuick ADVANCE® HIV test, encouraging others to get tested and learn their HIV status. The 2009 Miss Universe, Stefania Fernandez of Venezuela, was also tested with an OraQuick ADVANCE® test in recognition of the day.

At the 2009 National Latino AIDS Awareness Day kickoff event in NYC, Miss Dominican Republic U.S., Mariela Lucas, takes the OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV Test to draw attention to the critical role HIV testing and prevention education plays in stemming the spread of HIV/AIDS among Latinos.

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More than 100 mayors from across the country stood in unity on National HIV Testing Day as part of NAPWA and OraSure's Mayors Campaign Against HIV™, a national campaign to encourage testing for HIV and promote the benefits of knowing one's HIV status. The Mayors of New York, Chicago, Boston, Miami, Detroit, Dallas and San Diego are among those who supported the initiative by hosting HIV testing campaigns in their cities, conducting press conferences, issuing proclamations, and leading by example by receiving an HIV test to demonstrate the importance of knowing your HIV status.

NAPWA held a press conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC to recognize the participating Mayors and promote testing events across the country. Press conference participants included Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Christopher Bates, Director, Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of HIV/AIDS Policy and Dr. Pierre Vigilance, Director, Department of Health, District of Columbia Department of Health, among others. Rapid HIV Testing with the OraQuick ADVANCE® was conducted after the event on Capitol Hill.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters takes an OraQuick HIV Test

Additionally, in conjunction with the Mayors Campaign against HIV, OraSure joined forces with the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA) to encourage Black clergy members across the U.S. to partner with local community-based organizations to promote testing in their communities. Ministers and congregations in more than 100 places of worship in major cities including New York, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta participated in the initiative.

Thousands of people across the U.S. got tested for HIV during the week. One such person documented her story on CNN to encourage others to get tested. In her video, she describes the ease of taking an OraQuick ADVANCE® test.

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One of the most important aspects of awareness is ensuring people know the importance of getting screened for hepatitis – and how fast and easy the process has become. OraSure Technologies recently introduced OraQuick HCV, a rapid HCV test that provides accurate HCV results in less than twenty minutes. The test is currently available for sale in the EU and OraSure has submitted data to the FDA for its approval in the U.S. The test is not currently available in the U.S.

Two of the world's leading experts in hepatitis C recently discussed OraSure's rapid HCV test at the European Association for the Study of the Liver 2010 meeting in April.

Rafael Esteban, MD: Head, Internal Medicine, Hepatology, and Liver Unit, Universitari Vall D'Hebron, Spain
Watch the Video

Jean-Michel Pawlotsky, MD, PhD: Chief, Department of Virology, Henri Mondor University Hospital, France
Watch the Video

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Born out of this commitment, the St. Barnabas hospital-wide routine HIV testing program was launched in April of 2008 and today has grown into one of the largest and most successful programs in the country.

St. Barnabas leverages OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid oral fluid testing to quickly and easily test patients across the hospital including the Emergency, Ambulatory Care and Inpatient departments, among others. Since the launch of the routine program, St. Barnabas has increased the number of rapid tests in a year by nearly 10 fold – from just 1,400 in 2007 to more than 13,000 in 2009. Better yet, the hospital is on track to exceed that number in 2010.

St. Barnabas attributes the success of the program to a streamlined consent process, the use of rapid oral fluid testing, a dedicated, well-trained staff and a culture of support around the entire hospital.

OraSure recently sat down with Ralph Belloise, Director of HIV Services at St. Barnabas to discuss the success of the program and what other hospitals can learn from it.

Watch the Video

The St. Barnabas HIV testing staff, known locally as the "Dream Team," participate in a World AIDS Day event to help raise awareness of the importance of knowing one's HIV status.

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You can watch the webcast of the event at: www.visualwebcaster.com/Women-Girls-Awareness-Day

D. Fraser-Howze and Frances Ashe-Goins, Acting Director, Office of Women's Health, HHS

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This progressive program now serves as a model for other VA clinics nationwide that are responding to the Veteran's Health Administration's August 2009 directive that recommended that HIV testing be part of the routine medical care that is offered to all veterans. This move by the VA will bring routine HIV testing to more VA Clinics nationwide, enabling more veterans to learn their status and empowering HIV positive patients to get connected to care immediately.

In support of the new routine HIV Testing directive and based largely on the success of the Downtown LA Clinic, the VA has created several resources to help guide VA clinics on the implementation of routine HIV testing programs.

VA's HIV Oral Rapid Test Audiovisual Educational Module
VA's Brochure on Oral Rapid HIV Testing

Dr. Henry D. Anaya. Research Scientist, United States Department of Veteran's Affairs, spoke with OraSure about the need for increased testing in the veteran community and how he hopes the routine HIV testing program at the Downtown LA Clinic can serve as a model for other VA clinics who are working to implement routine testing programs.

Listen to the Podcast

Dr. Henry D. Anaya, PhD, Research Scientist, United States Department of Veteran's Affairs

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As a new entrant into the oral fluid drug testing market, Aegis is enthusiastic about the positive response from the market and the expanded sales and marketing opportunity this method of testing offers the company. In this podcast, Jamey Yawn, the Sales Manager of Forensics at Aegis, discusses the company's recent implementation of oral fluid drug testing and the numerous benefits Aegis has realized working with OraSure Technologies to implement the offering.

Jamey Yawn, Sales Manager of Forensics at Aegis Sciences Corporation

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This year marks the 10th year for Holiday Hope Chests, a national project adopted by the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley in conjunction with other partners to help less fortunate children living in the Lehigh Valley. Collected Chests (shoeboxes) are being distributed in the Lehigh Valley through agencies serving children throughout the holiday season. Despite the tough economy, OraSure employees doubled their holiday donations to the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.

A high percentage of children live in poverty in the Lehigh Valley. According to the United Way of the Lehigh Valley, 1/3 or 33% of Lehigh Valley children live in low-income households (family of 4) of $40,000 or less.

Watch the video: http://wfmz.com/view/?id=1308287

OraSure employees deliver over 300 Holiday Hope Chests to the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley.

OraSure Employees Sheryl Richter, Barbara Keller, and Amy Wimer participate in the 10th annual Holiday Hope Chest campaign.

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"Earlier this week, the city lost a leader, the state a statesman and the country a champion," said Debra Fraser-Howze, Vice President, Government Relations and External Affairs at OraSure and founder of the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS. "I had the pleasure of working side-by-side with Dennis for nearly 30 years, as he fought to reduce the stigma associated with HIV and to increase HIV testing and prevention throughout the Latino community. Dennis touched the lives of many of us here at OraSure and we will miss him dearly."

For 15 years, Dennis was the President of the Latino Commission on AIDS, a national service and advocacy organization addressing HIV/AIDS and health disparities in the Latino community nationwide. In his capacity as Commission President, Dennis served as the Manhattan delegate on the Civilian Complaint Review Board, which reviewed police misconduct allegations, and on several other boards, including the New York City HIV/AIDS Planning Group, Gay Men's Health Crisis, Housing Works, and the Federal AIDS Policy Partnership.

Prior to his tenure at the Commission, Dennis served as Chair/Commissioner for the New York City Commission on Human Rights, where he enforced human rights laws and increased cooperation between diverse ethnic and racial communities.

"The Latino Commission on AIDS has lost a great leader and we have lost a great friend," said Douglas A. Michels, President and Chief Executive Officer of OraSure Technologies. "I know the Commission will continue to carry out the great work that Dennis began and as Company, we stand committed, more than ever, to further grow our partnership with the Commission to ensure that Dennis' legacy lives on."

Dennis deLeon (center with sportscoat) and the staff at the Latino Commission on AIDS pose with donated OraQuick test kits for National Latino AIDS Awareness Day in 2008.

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According to a new report issued by the UK Health Protection Agency on December 11, 2009, entitled "Hepatitis C in the UK - The Health Protection Agency Annual Report 2009," it is currently estimated that approximately 185,000 individuals in the UK are chronically infected with Hepatitis C, including more than 8,000 people who were diagnosed in 2008 in England.

OraSure recently spoke with Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, the national charity for HCV in the United Kingdom, about his perspectives on Hepatitis C in the UK and the potential impact rapid oral fluid testing could have on enabling them to reach more people who would otherwise not have access to testing.

Listen to the Podcast

Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, the national charity for HCV in the United Kingdom

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For example, in Italy, we are supporting Milan's HIV Reference Center and the launch of a mobile HIV testing initiative– among the first of its kind in the country. In South Korea, we are supporting the country's World AIDS Day launch of a new, progressive initiative that will bring HIV testing to dental offices throughout the country. The dental HIV testing program will leverage OraQuick ADVANCE® and its rapid oral fluid testing capability.

While in the U.S., OraSure is helping to promote dozens of events nationwide. Through the distribution of palm cards, posters and banners, sites have been able to promote HIV testing and the events they are holding in conjunction with World AIDS Day.

Please join in honoring those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to also continue the drive forward in the fight against this epidemic.

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NLAAD is a nationwide call to action for Latinos to protect their lives and the lives of those they love by getting tested and learning about HIV. With the theme, "United We Can Stop HIV and Prevent AIDS", NLAAD is a day of action and awareness.

OraSure has provided public relations support for NLAAD to raise awareness about the importance of testing and prevention of HIV, in addition to contributing OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid HIV tests to more than 75 community health organizations specifically for use on National Latino AIDS Awareness Day.

Leading up to NLAAD, the New York City NLAAD Planning Committee and Council member Melissa Mark-Viverito hosted a kickoff event on October 7th to draw attention to the critical role of HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS.

At the kickoff event, Miss Dominican Republic U.S. (Mariela Lucas), Dr. Monica Sweeney (NYC DOHMH, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control) and Carlos Santos (MTV3res) all took the OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid HIV test using a simple oral fluid sample in front of the public to raise awareness for HIV/AIDS prevention among Latinos.

Latinos continue to be disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. They comprise over 24.3% percent of HIV/AIDS cases nationwide (CDC). There are 94,000 people known to be living with HIV/AIDS in NYC; of that total number, 28 percent are Hispanic/Latino (NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene). New York State is the state with the highest number of Latinos living with HIV/AIDS (CDC).

At the National Latino AIDS Awareness Day kickoff event on October 7th in NYC, Miss Dominican Republic U.S., Mariela Lucas, takes the OraQuick rapid HIV Test to draw attention to the critical role of HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS among Latinos.

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In December 2008, led by Dr. Charles Hicks and Dr. Mehri McKellar, Duke University Hospital launched a two-year routine HIV testing pilot program in the Hospital's emergency room department. The program aims to address the growing number of infections in the Southeastern states and utilizes two groups of testers– pastoral counselors and medical student volunteers – to offer testing to patients admitted to the ER. Since January of 2009, over 1000 patients have been approached and nearly 700 were screened for HIV using OraQuick ADVANCE®.

Dr. McKellar spent time with OraSure recently, discussing the progress of the Hospital's routine testing pilot program and what's in-store for the program in the future.

Listen to the Podcast

Mehri McKellar, M.D., is an infectious disease specialist and researcher at Duke University Hospital. Dr. McKellar also serves as an assistant professor at Duke University Medical School.

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Obstacles included gender issues related to staffing and observing urine sample collection, limited ability to protect against urine sample adulteration and the drain on resources due to the length of time and number of staff members needed to conduct urine-based testing. ARTC recognized the need for a drug testing system that would address these challenges and they turned to OraSure's Intercept® Oral Fluid Drug Test.

Oral fluid drug testing with Intercept® enables ARTC staff to directly observe sample collection and eliminates the need for restroom facilities. As a result, the Clinic has increased the number of patients that can be tested at one time, decreased the incidences of sample adulteration, as well as increased patient comfort and privacy.

Dr. Robert Sage, Senior Vice President, Division of Human Services, ARTC, sat down with OraSure to talk about the challenges of traditional urine-based drug testing and the highly positive impact that oral fluid drug testing has had on ARTC's drug testing program.

Listen to the Podcast

Dr. Robert Sage, Senior Vice President, Division of Human Services Addiction Research and Treatment Corporation

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VIP Smiles is a progressive, New York City-based dental practice lead by expert cosmetic dentist, Dr. Austin. Responding to the CDC's recommendation for routine HIV screening and the high rate of HIV infection in New York City, Dr. Austin partnered with the New York State Department of Health to launch a routine HIV testing program at her dental practice.

The program was launched in early August and leverages OraQuick ADVANCE®. As part of the routine testing program, all patients who enter the office will be offered an oral fluid HIV test. VIP Smiles sees hundreds of patients per month and hopes to serve as a model for dentists across the country.

On Saturday, October 17, Dr. Austin will speak on the Technical Assistance Panel at the 2009 Conference on Oral Pathology & Rapid HIV Testing in the Dental Setting at the New York University College of Dentistry. The conference is devoted to the advancement of the art and science of dentistry in service to the public.

Watch the Video

Dr. Catrise Austin, D.D.S., discusses the importance of routine HIV screening and why dental practices make an ideal location for routine screening programs.

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Howard University Hospital is located in Washington D.C. and serves a local population that represents the highest incidence rate of HIV infection in the country. The Hospital launched its routine HIV testing program in October 2006 – both to help the City meet its goal of having every citizen know their HIV status and in response to the revised guidelines for HIV testing issued by the CDC in September of 2006 that recommend routine screening regardless of risk.

The program offers HIV screening with OraQuick ADVANCE® to every patient in the outpatient, inpatient and emergency room settings. Since the launch of the program, the Hospital has tested more than 28,500 patients and connected more than 250 patients to care. Howard University Hospital's program has been a resounding success and serves as a model for hospitals across the Country.

Listen to the Podcast

Dr. Celia Maxwell, Assistant Vice President of Health Services at Howard Hospital. Dr. Maxwell is also the Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Management and Research and the Director of HIV routine screening program at the Hospital.

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"Test Fest" is part of "Virus," a multi-faceted HIV Testing campaign recently launched by the Office of AIDS Programs and Policy that is designed to make Angelenos ask the question: "Could I have HIV?" The campaign includes a series of "Test-Fest" events that bring HIV testing mobile units into the community.

The first "Test-Fest" event took on July 25, 2009, and included live entertainment with approximately 10 mobile HIV testing units at the event. More than 200 Southern California residents were tested with OraQuick ADVANCE® and received their results before leaving the event.

Local participants stand in front of one of approximately 10 mobile testing vans used in the first ever "Test-Fest" event at Ted Watkins County Park in Los Angeles to help normalize HIV testing and make it as convenient as possible. PHOTO BY ERASEDOUBT.ORG

"We developed a campaign around the idea that people go through several stages when considering HIV and how the disease affects them," said Mario J. Pérez, Director, Office of AIDS Programs and Policy. "Our goal is to move people from assessing their risk, to questioning whether or not they have HIV and finally getting tested and, if necessary, seeking treatment."

The next Test-Fest event is estimated to take place in October.

Watch the Video

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From October 2005 to April 2009, 33,325 patients were approached in the Jacobi and North Central Bronx emergency departments and urgent care areas and 29,094 agreed to be tested for HIV. Of those, 134 were newly diagnosed with HIV and connected to care.

The success of Project BRIEF has been recognized on a national and international level and the program serves as a model program for routine HIV testing across the country.

Watch the Video

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The Center, one of the largest rapid testing sites in Southern Florida, expanded its HIV testing programs in 2005 as a result of the CDC's MMWR publication (June 2005) that indicated that more South Florida men who have sex with men (MSM's) were unaware of their status than in most other urban locations.

In 2006, The Center introduced OraQuick ADVANCE® in an effort to make the process easier and more accessible for the increased number of MSM's who were seeking HIV testing. Since introducing OraQuick ADVANCE®, the Center has increased the number of MSM's who are tested by 400%.

Read the complete interview.

Jorge Gardela, Health and Community Services Manager at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida

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In an effort to increase the number of people who know their HIV status and help stem the spread of HIV in America, Congresswoman Waters introduced the Routine HIV Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 2137) which would require health insurance plans to cover voluntarily routine opt-out HIV testing under the same terms and conditions as other routine health screenings, such as cholesterol and diabetes screenings.

Standard health insurance plans generally cover HIV screening only when there are known risk factors present for HIV or when there are clinical indications of infection, such as symptoms of AIDS. This is in direct contrast to the CDC's HIV testing guidelines, which recommend routine testing for all individuals aged 13 to 64, regardless of risk.

"OraSure commends Congresswoman Maxine Waters and other congressional leaders who are fighting for legislation that will help stem the spread of HIV in America and who are standing in support of the CDC's recommendations for routine HIV testing for all Americans, regardless of risk," said Douglas A. Michels, President and Chief Executive Officer of OraSure Technologies. "Testing is the first step in prevention. By making HIV testing a standard part of the routine health examinations covered by health insurance providers, millions more people will be tested and will learn their status each year, enabling HIV positive people to seek immediate care."

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) of the 35th District of California is currently serving her tenth term in the House of Representatives

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The newly updated consent requirements will remove significant barriers to routine HIV testing within the U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA), making it possible to implement broad-scale, routine HIV screening in alignment with the CDC's recommendation for routine HIV testing for all patients aged 13 to 64, regardless of risk. The VA is the largest integrated healthcare provider in the United States and the single largest provider of HIV care.

"OraSure commends the Department of Veterans' Affairs for updating its consent requirements for HIV testing and removing the barriers that have for years limited access to HIV screening and counseling for veterans," said Douglas A. Michels, President and Chief Executive Officer of OraSure Technologies. "As the single largest provider of HIV services in the Unites States, the VA's actions of ensuring access to testing for all veterans sends a loud and clear message to the healthcare community that HIV testing is the first step in stemming the spread of the HIV crisis. By increasing access to testing, the VA will enable more people learn their status and will empower them to get the care they need to live long and healthy lives."

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GMHC set-up an on-site testing clinic and offered free HIV tests to attendees. Attendees were offered OraQuick ADVANCE® oral fluid rapid HIV tests and received their results in just twenty minutes. Nearly 100 convention attendees were tested and 100% learned their status. GHMC also distributed HIV prevention materials including educational literature and sexual protection.

GMHC's CEO and one of the Agency's HIV testing administrators took time to speak with us about the importance of rapid oral fluid testing and the impact OraQuick ADVANCE® has had on patients' willingness to be tested.

Marjorie Hill, CEO, GMHC, shares her thoughts on why rapid oral fluid testing is critical in the fight against HIV.

Manuel Sanchez, HIV Testing Administrator, GMHC, discusses the importance of providing HIV testing outside of traditional clinical setting.

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In recognition of her monumental efforts, Ms. Fraser-Howze, Vice President of Government and External Affairs at OraSure, has received the Scroll of Merit, the National Medical Association's (NMA) highest honor.

The Scroll of Merit is given in recognition of unique exceptional achievement in medicine, science, education or public service. The award was conferred on July 25th at the NMA's Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly in Las Vegas.

Ms. Fraser-Howze has been selected for this high honor because of her important contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS in the African American community. Ms. Fraser-Howze was the first to mobilize a broad coalition of African American Leaders that included clergy, political leaders, community based organizations and medical professionals in the fight against HIV/AIDS at a time when many were unaware of the disease or the danger to the community.

Prior to joining OraSure, Ms. Fraser-Howze served as the President/CEO of National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA), an organization she founded in 1987. NBLCA conducts policy, research and advocacy on HIV and AIDS to ensure effective participation of its leadership in all policy and resource allocation decisions at the national, state and local levels of communities of African descent nationwide. NBLCA is now the largest Black HIV and AIDS non-profit organization of its kind in America.

Ms. Debra Fraser-Howze, Vice President of Government and External Affairs, OraSure Technologies

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The Get Text-ed for HIV campaign was launched the day before the 15th annual National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) on June 27. Using a mobile phone, any city resident can send a text message with 'PA' plus their 5 digit 'ZIP CODE' (i.e. PA 19019) to phone number (36363) and receive a free text message with HIV/AIDS information on the HIV testing center location nearest to them.

After the first day, the Get Text-ed for HIV campaign generated 100 new users. More than 60 HIV testing sites throughout Philadelphia are participating in the program. The free service allows residents to receive testing site information in a private and confidential manner.

"We are excited to launch this new innovative campaign promoting the importance of HIV/AIDS prevention and testing in Philadelphia," said Jane Baker, Director of the AIDS Activities Coordinating Office. "This program employs a technology that is already in use among many of the at-risk groups in our city, particularly among young people, who account for more than 18% of new HIV cases in Philadelphia. Our hope is that it becomes an effective tool for increasing HIV testing in our communities."

To kickoff the launch, Senator Vincent Hughes swabbed his mouth with the OraQuick ADVANCE® HIV test to demonstrate the ease-of-use of the first and only FDA approved, rapid oral HIV test that provides greater than 99% accurate results in 20 minutes. Click here to see Senator Hughes taking OraQuick.

HIV/AIDS continues to be a major health crisis in the US including Philadelphia. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, there are approximately 24,668 reported cases to date of HIV/AIDS in Philadelphia.

State Senator Vincent Hughes swabs his mouth with the OraQuick ADVANCE® Rapid HIV Test to draw attention to the critical role HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS in Philadelphia. PHOTO BY RON ALLEN

In recognition of National HIV Testing Day, state Sen. Vincent Hughes (3rd from left) was joined by (l to r) Gloria Casarez, City of Philadelphia, William Brawner, Haven Youth Center; Chris Ambrose, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Jane Baker, AIDS Activities Coordinating Office; David Acosta, AIDS Activities

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Mayors showed their support of National HIV Testing Day by hosting HIV testing campaigns in their cities, conducting press conferences, issuing proclamations, and leading by example by receiving an HIV test to demonstrate the importance of knowing your HIV status.

OraSure's Mayors Campaign Against HIVTM is coordinated by the National Association of People with AIDS, the nation's oldest organization representing individuals who are HIV positive.

Athens-Clarke Mayor Heidi Davison takes an OraQuick ADVANCE® rapid oral fluid HIV test at AIDS Athens. Photo courtesy of Athens Banner Herald.

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Joining OraSure's CEO Doug Michels and Mr. Oldham, Jr. on the podium for the ceremony were several special guests, including NYC City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Dr. Monica Sweeney, Assistant Commissioner, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention & Control, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Dr. Jason Leider and Dr. Yvette Calderon of the North Bronx Healthcare Network of Jacobi and North Central Bronx Hospitals, who run a nationally acclaimed HIV testing program that demonstrates the significant impact of implementing routine HIV testing in healthcare settings, and Broderick Singletary, an HIV-positive individual who was diagnosed through the program at Jacobi several years ago and now speaks out about the importance of learning your HIV status.

Featured during the open and on the NASDAQ Tower in Times Square was a video of "The Bronx Knows" – the successful HIV testing program at Jacobi.

Click here to view the webcast of the event:
http://www.nasdaq.com/reference/200906/market_open_062609.stm

OraSure and special guests open the NASDAQ stock market on June 26th for National HIV Testing Day.

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The testing event took place during the Tim Richmond Memorial ARCA RE/MAX 200 and paid tribute to motorsports legend Tim Richmond, known as a highly successful driver whose life was cut short due to the AIDS virus in 1989. Richmond competed in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series (currently the Sprint Cup Series) and was one of Hendrick Motorsports most successful drivers, launching the team to contender status while still in its infancy.

As a tribute to the legend, OraSure Technologies, the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Rural AIDS Advisory Group and Richland health teamed up with G-Force Motorsports Marketing, The Goddard Marketing Group and Venturini Motorsports to promote HIV and AIDS awareness in the racing community.

"We are excited to be a part of the HIV/AIDS awareness and testing event because I don't believe folks realize how many people are affected by this disease," said Venturini Motorsports team principal, Billy Venturini. "We see the need for everyone to get tested, so they know their status. It is quick and easy, and we hope all fans and competitors will take a few minutes to get the facts."

This event highlights how HIV/AIDS acceptance and adoption continue to take positive steps within the NASCAR and racing community. Fans who participated in the testing were each given a free t-shirt and entered to win a Richard Petty Driving Experience Ride-Along Experience to be used at one of the 20 locations across the country.

ARCA Re/Max driver Tim George Jr. swabs his mouth with the OraQuick ADVANCE® Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test to draw attention to the critical role of HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS in the racing community. PHOTO BY GODDARD MARKETING GROUP

ARCA truck series driver Mike Young swabs his mouth with the OraQuick ADVANCE® Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test preceding the Tim Richmond Memorial ARCA RE/MAX 200. PHOTO BY GODDARD MARKETING GROUP

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OraSure employees hit the streets with approximately 45,000 participants and raised $5.6 million, according to Gay Men's Health Crisis, which is one of over 50 local AIDS service organizations that benefits from the annual fundraising event.

Since its launch in 1986, AIDS Walk New York has raised over $100 million and has grown into one of the largest AIDS fundraising events in the world. The event is also the world's largest walkathon.

Employees and family members from OraSure Technologies prepare for the 2009 AIDS Walk in New York City.

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Ten years ago, DeShea Townsend began hosting football clinics for the city's youth to provide a fun, safe, one-day escape to learn fundamental football skills. A decade later, in conjunction with Townsend's 10th annual football camp, the South Panola High School alumnus and defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers added a community health awareness fair in Batesville.

As part of the Health Fair, Townsend, along with teammate James Farrior took the OraQuick ADVANCE® Rapid HIV test using a simple oral fluid sample to draw attention to the critical role of HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS and to show people how simple getting tested can be with rapid oral fluid testing.

OraSure donated rapid HIV tests to the Aaron E. Henry Community Health Center to help educate local residents about the importance of testing and prevention of HIV. Approximately 50 local residents were tested at the Health Fair.

At the first annual Pay it Forward Health Fair in Batesville, Mississippi, Batesville native and two-time Superbowl champ DeShea Townsend swabs his mouth with the OraQuick ADVANCE® Rapid HIV Test to draw attention to the critical role HIV testing and prevention education play in stemming the spread of AIDS in Mississippi. PHOTO BY MYRA BEAN, THE PANOLIAN

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The introduction of rapid testing with oral fluid has enabled Open Door to administer HIV testing within the community through its mobile testing unit. With the rapid oral fluid test, Open Door has been able to help remove barriers to HIV testing, because community members are able to take the test – a quick swab of the mouth, which requires no needles and no blood – and get their results in as little as 20 minutes. Community members can get tested and walk away with the certainty that they are getting accurate results – they view OraQuick ADVANCE as a test they can trust, and Open Door as a facility they can trust. In 2008, Open Door administered approximately 1,400 HIV tests through their mobile testing units.

In the following video, Open Door Family Medical Centers' Director of HIV Services, Andrea Beltran Ruggiero, discusses how the use of rapid testing with oral fluid through Open Door's mobile units is helping to remove barriers to HIV testing throughout the communities of Westchester County, NY.

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Local Veterans, including Gerry Gunari, First Vice President of Pennsylvania's AMVETS chapter and OraSure employees were in attendance.

Congressman Dent is a long-time advocate of HIV testing and prevention and the legislation he championed, which was signed into law, includes a freestanding bill that modernizes the HIV testing policies of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill includes a provision that repeals the 1988 Veterans Benefits and Services law which has limited the implementation of the CDC guidelines for routine HIV testing, counseling and early diagnosis in healthcare settings that were issued in 2006.

By repealing this law, the VA can now adopt the CDC's recommendation of streamlined counseling and can implement routine HIV screening in VA health care settings.

Susan Brink of the Los Angeles Times offers a great summary of the new bill that will make HIV testing guidelines routine within the VA. According to Brink, "another obstacle to routine screening for HIV is about to fall, this time for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the nation's largest provider of HIV care."

The VA system is the largest health care system in the U.S., making it the single largest provider of HIV care. There are 24 million veterans alive today and 5 million veterans receive services from the VA System. Approximately 23,000 Veterans are HIV Positive.

OraSure Technologies' President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Doug Michels, left, presents a gift to Congressman Charles W. Dent, in recognition of his efforts introducing legislation to make HIV test kits more available for vets. The event was held at OraSure Technologies, Bethlehem, PA, Monday March 9, 2009. Other special guests were Gerard Gurnari and Richard White, both of AMVETS, and Charles Jackson, of VFW District 8. PHOTO BY LISA MASSEY

OraSure Technologies' US Military veteran employees (gathered near left of photo) are among those attending the recognition event at OraSure with Congressman Charles W. Dent, and local representatives from AMVETS and VFW Monday March 9, 2009. PHOTO BY LISA MASSEY

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University of South Alabama News
Sexual health concerns deplete resources at SHC
February 23, 2009

As winter warms into summer, there is much more to keeping healthy than just keeping your body toned and tanned: Keep it fine-tuned by being sexually healthy this spring.

Last week, University of South Alabama observed Minority AIDS Awareness Week by offering a free Oraquick Rapid HIV testing Feb. 16 and 17 at the Student Health Center. All testing remained confidential, and results were determined within 20 minutes. Due to the testing's popularity, supplies were depleted before the second day of tests could even begin.

The SHC has stated plans to host another free rapid HIV testing on March 9 and 10, which will prepare everyone by knowing their sexual health status before setting off for Spring Break.

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Chicago Sun-Times
Patients waiting in ER offered free HIV test
February 13, 2009

More than 80% give oral sample: hospital

People waiting to be seen in the emergency room at Advocate Trinity Hospital in the Calumet Heights neighborhood don't just get forms to fill out. They're also offered a free HIV test, no matter why they're there.

It's part of an unusual program aimed at getting more people tested for HIV.

Since the program began last May, more than 5,000 people have been tested. The number of people who tested positive was not immediately available.

"We don't wait for patients to come to us," said Donna Sinclair, HIV coordinator for the Southeast Side hospital's emergency department. "Instead, our health educators go to each patient awaiting treatment and provide them with a wealth of information—everything from how the virus is spread, to who is at risk, to what they need to know about the test."

Fewer than 20 percent of people approached to take the oral HIV test decline, according to Sinclair. The results are back in 20 minutes.

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ECHO Magazine
Get Tested
July 10, 2008

The mayor of Phoenix joined volunteers and concerned citizens in efforts to raise awareness for national HIV Testing Day on June 27. Phil Gordon held his fourth annual press conference at Higher Heights Church to educate the Valley on the importance of HIV/AIDS testing. "A lot of people still have in their impression HIV/AIDS is somehow related to homosexual orientation, or punishing people for what they have done. Neither of those issues are further away from the truth," Gordon said. National HIV Testing Day is a nationwide effort to promote the benefits of being tested for HIV/AIDS. Nearly 25 percent of the HIV-positive population in the U.S. is unaware they have contracted the disease. In the last few years HIV testing has advanced significantly, from a mind-numbing waiting process to immediate notification. "No longer does an HIV test require blood or needles... but rather an oral swab," Gordon said.

OraSure technologies donated 300 OraQuick antibody tests to the Arizona Department of Health. "The test is safe, painless and accurate›it requires just a swab of oral fluid and is greater than 99 percent accurate. Results are available in 20 minutes," according to information supplied by the Mayor's Campaign Against HIV. Judy Norton, office chief for the Arizona Department of Health, has been helping her community deal with HIV since the late '80s. Her program helps prevent, fund and counsel individuals affected by the disease.

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