DSHS HIV/STD Section has created the 2027–2031 HIV Plan which aims to address the ongoing HIV epidemic in Texas by analyzing the current trends of HIV transmission and acquisition in Texas and creating goals which align with those of the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) pillars. The plan builds on the work from the 2022–2027 HIV Plan.

The four main goals of the plan are:
- A 50 percent reduction in the annual number of Texans who acquire HIV.
- Ensure 90 percent of Texans living with HIV are aware of their status.
- Ensure 90 percent of Texans living with diagnosed HIV are on antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- Ensure 95 percent of Texans who are on ART achieve viral suppression.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) launched the Self-Collect Testing program in 2026 as a way for Texans to test for HIV and STDs without going to a clinic. The program allows people to place orders for test kits through testfortexas.org and have kits delivered to an address of their choosing.

From there, clients can test for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis from the comfort of their own home. Once they have collected a sample, clients can mail the sample back to our lab via USPS. Both the inbound and outbound packages are discreet, so clients do not have to worry about potentially disclosing their status.

Please update your bookmarks. TakeChargeTexas (TCT) has a new web address:

- Agency Portal (New Link): ap-tct.hhs.state.tx.us (replaces ap.takechargetexas.gov)
- Client Portal (New Link): tct.hhs.state.tx.us (replaces takechargetexas.gov)

For any questions or technical support, please contact the helpdesk at tcthelpdesk@dshs.texas.gov