Print this page    •   Back to Web version of article

University of South Dakota Student Health Discontinues Anonymous HIV Testing

November 13, 2001

Levels of anxiety surrounding HIV testing may rise even more since the University of South Dakota Student Health stopped anonymous testing this past summer. "We are always willing to do an HIV test," said Greg Geise, Student Health director. "However, we cannot do an anonymous test due to decreased funding and personnel."

The change may seem minor but many worry about discrimination because the test now remains on the student's medical record. Medical records can only be released with the patient's consent or by court order, but people with HIV can lose insurance coverage if the company is not allowed to view the individual's records.

"HIV tests are vital to some people's health. They are much more likely to have a test done if it is anonymous and free," said freshman Matthew Maczkowicz. Completely anonymous tests are available at the Siouxland District Health Department in Sioux Falls and Yankton.


Back to other CDC news for November 13, 2001

Previous Updates | Search the CDC archive

Excerpted from:
Volante (University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD)
11.07.01



This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. You can find this article online by typing this address into your Web browser:
http://www.thebody.com/content/art18967.html

General Disclaimer: The Body is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through The Body should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, consult your health care provider.