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CDC Recommends Routine HIV Testing

September 27, 2006

On September 21, 2006, the CDC released its proposal on HIV testing in the United States. In light of the epidemic, the CDC recommends HIV tests become a standard component of medical care for citizens ages 13 to 64.

The proposal also suggests the requirement for pretest counseling and written consent be dropped. CDC analysis estimates that approximately 25% of HIV-positive persons in the U.S. do not know their status. Physicians believe routine testing will lead to early diagnosis and treatment. The recommendations are designed to simplify the HIV testing process in addition to permeate barriers that affected the implementation of previous guidelines. Guidelines suggest routine HIV testing should continue unless health care providers can establish that less than one of every 1,000 patients test HIV-positive. The Los Angeles Times noted that the recommendations are not legally binding; however, as a result of the recommendations, insurance companies are now more likely to cover the costs associated with HIV testing. A Washington Post article reported if the new guidelines are followed the number of HIV-positive persons unaware of their status could be reduced by two-thirds.

If you do not know your status, GET TESTED.

For more information, view the following link: the September 22nd edition of the CDC’s “Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5514a1.htm

Posted at 09:38 AM by Shantrie in the News & Media category/ies.