HIV testing - A standard part of your yearly physical

[SydneyK]

Originally Posted by neosoul

I say include it in the physical, but let the patient decide if they want it done or not

I think that's how it's set up. It is (or will be) standard procedure, but the patient can "opt out" (for lack of a better word).

While I applaud the efforts of the CDC to identify and treat HIV+ people earlier, I'm afraid that I don't see how this will help as much as they'd like. I don't know what the stats are, but my guess would be that many people who are HIV+ are, for the most part, people who probably aren't real conscientious about going to the doctor every year. I'm not trying to generalize or stereotype, I just think it's likely that the results aren't going to be what the CDC is hoping for.

[jon1856]

Originally Posted by SydneyK

I think that's how it's set up. It is (or will be) standard procedure, but the patient can "opt out" (for lack of a better word).

While I applaud the efforts of the CDC to identify and treat HIV+ people earlier, I'm afraid that I don't see how this will help as much as they'd like. I don't know what the stats are, but my guess would be that many people who are HIV+ are, for the most part, people who probably aren't real conscientious about going to the doctor every year. I'm not trying to generalize or stereotype, I just think it's likely that the results aren't going to be what the CDC is hoping for.

From CDC site ( see my prior posting ):

1. Why is CDC recommending the end of a separate, written permission (consent) for an HIV test?
   CDC believes HIV testing can be covered under a general permission form (consent form) that is signed for all medical care. CDC’s recommendation to end separate, written permission for HIV testing does not mean that CDC encourages testing people without their permission. CDC believes that all HIV testing should be voluntary and only done with the patient’s knowledge and agreement.
   
2. Is CDC recommending mandatory testing? No. CDC is recommending voluntary HIV screening. The right to refuse an HIV test is called “opt-out.” This means that the patient will be informed that the test will be performed and may choose not to have it.
   
3. Will people be tested for HIV without their knowledge or consent? No one should be tested without their knowledge. Everyone will have the opportunity to refuse HIV testing (opt-out). No one should ever be tested for HIV without their knowledge and permission. The definition of opt-out testing included in the Recommendations clearly states that the HIV test will be given after the patient has been told that the test will be performed and that the patient may decline testing.

1. Can I choose not to be tested?
2. Yes. Your health care provider may want to know why you do not want to be tested, but you have the right to refuse any medical screening test, including an HIV test.