HIV / ARVs
2 public facilities across South Africa
South Africa runs the world's largest antiretroviral treatment programme — over 5.7 million people on ARVs as of 2024. Since September 2017, all public clinics offer same-day initiation: you can test positive and start treatment the same day, without waiting for blood results. The standard first-line regimen is TLD (tenofovir + lamivudine + dolutegravir), a single pill taken once daily. Viral suppression rates in SA's public programme exceed 90% for patients who stay on treatment — matching private-sector outcomes. Treatment is lifelong, free, and available at every clinic listed below.
What to expect
A rapid finger-prick test with results in 15 minutes. Two tests are done — if both are reactive, you are HIV positive. Testing is confidential and can be anonymous.
A nurse checks for TB symptoms, takes blood for baseline tests (CD4, creatinine, hepatitis B), and assesses readiness. If no red flags, you start ARVs the same day.
You receive a 1-month supply. Take it at the same time every day. Common early side effects — insomnia, headache — usually resolve within 2-4 weeks.
Check for side effects, review adherence, repeat blood tests. By 3 months, 85% of patients achieve viral suppression.
Once stable (viral load undetectable for 12 months), you can collect medication from a CCMDD pickup point instead of the clinic.
Who is eligible?
Every person living with HIV in South Africa is eligible for ARVs, regardless of CD4 count, nationality, or documentation status. Children, pregnant women, and people with TB are fast-tracked. There is no means test — treatment is free.
Read the full guide
Our guide covers everything in detail: step-by-step process, FAQs, and practical tips.
How to Get ARVs at a Public Clinic →