Policy & Politics Illinois: New Law Allows HIV Tests With Just Spoken ConsentJune 28, 2007 On Wednesday, National HIV Testing Day, Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed legislation that streamlines HIV testing procedures in Illinois. The new law allows patients to give verbal consent for the test, rather than filling out formal paperwork. The legislation requires health care providers to supply patients with pre-test information about HIV and how to interpret test results. Those testing positive must be told of the results in person, and referrals to appropriate counseling and medical providers must be given. Patients can decline to be tested. It is hoped the legislation will make HIV testing more common and increase early detection. According to the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, up to 10,000 people in Illinois are believed to HIV-positive but do not know they are infected. For some, said AFC lobbyist John Peller, diagnosis comes too late for treatment to be effective. "It really becomes a tragedy of missed opportunities," he said. Chicago Tribune 06.28.2007; Monique Garcia ![]() CDC Awards $35 Million to Support HIV Testing and Increase Early Diagnosis of HIV Among African Americans This article was provided by CDC National Prevention Information Network. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update.
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