City to adopt names-based HIV reporting

[kweerwolf]

After struggling for years to maintain a codes-based HIV-reporting system that protects public privacy, the board of health voted unanimously this month to adopt a names-based HIV reporting system.

The decision was precipitated by a letter the city's Health Department received from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommending all states adopt names-based reporting instead of using coding systems that are used in Philadelphia, according to Health Department spokesman Jeff Moran.

AIDS activists say names-based systems are problematic because they do not protect the anonymity of city residents with HIV; the city insists confidentiality will still be protected.

A meeting to gather public input regarding the new regulations being planned by the Health Department, is set for Aug. 30, Moran said.

http://www.epgn.com/news/citynames.htm

[davidinalameda]

1. I hope that they don't impliment this

I don't care how many safeguards they put into place, people will be afraid to get tested because of the fear that their names might be leaked

[closeupready]

2. People will put off getting tested until they become symptomatic

no matter how "confidential" citizens are assured the information will be. This is a bad move.

[davidinalameda]

3. welcome to DU!

and welcome the GLBT forum as well

[Obamarama]

4. What's the fuss? HIPPA will protect you.

And yes, that subject line is dripping with :sarcasm: