Data on HIV infections will be added to the OE's monthly, bi-annual, and annual reports of New Mexico AIDS statistics. The information will be used to monitor the epidemic, to plan and design HIV services and prevention programs, and to allocate resources. The OE also provides custom data analysis for specific regions or populations, trainings on the data, and graphic presentation materials. Many people with HIV are unaware of the national system of disease reporting. It is important to discuss the confidentiality of health data and the importance of tracking epidemics in order to prevent new cases and provide services for those affected.
Accurate information is needed to justify the funding for disease prevention and services.
Patient names will not be released to insurance companies, employers, law enforcement agencies or anywhere else outside of the New Mexico Department of Health. People living with HIV are protected against discrimination under the American Disabilities Act. Call the OE if you need assistance in talking to patients about HIV reporting. The study revealed several problems with UI systems, including incomplete reporting, reports with missing information, difficulty in conducting follow-up on specific cases, and the absence of behavioral risk data. Medical providers find UI systems difficult to use, and it is more difficult to follow patients and assure that they get appropriate care.