Confidentiality laws and regulations protect the information. Medical personnel and, in some states, the state health department will have access to your test results. Also, if you choose to sign a release form to have your personal physician notified, the information will become a part of your medical record. It may be seen by health care workers, insurers or employers. Your status may become known if you make a claim for health insurance benefits or apply for life insurance or disability insurance.
Confidential testing is available in all states.
If you test positive for HIV, early medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well, delay the onset of AIDS, and prevent some life-threatening conditions. There are many drugs to treat HIV infection and that may help you maintain your health. Get tested for tuberculosis. Undetected TB can cause serious illness, but it can be successfully treated if caught early. Don't smoke cigarettes, drink too much alcohol, or use drugs.