Reply #3: Indeed, HIV antibody tests are designed to err on the positive side.

[freestyle]

This is based on exactly what you said, a positive results in a confirmatory test using more detailed methods. There are things other than HIV antibodies that can result in a positive result on the initial test. The question is whether people getting their test via OraQuick are counseled as to the possibility of false positives. Rapid testing involves tradeoffs. Many people do not return for their results, so rapid testing could increase the numbers of people who know their serostatus. It could, as the poster below said, scare the hell out of people.

At any rate, everyone should know the risks, know their status, do their best to stay negative if they are and to stay healthy and keep others healthy if they are positive.