Furthermore, people could be more willing to provide their partners' names if they know their own names are not documented in any way. HIV name reporting will likely hinder current partner notification programs. The partner notification process can only take place if people are willing to seek HIV testing in the first place. Numerous studies demonstrate that concern over having one's name reported deters some high-risk populations from getting tested. As a result, some individuals will not learn their HIV status at all and will therefore be unable to inform their partners of potential risk.
Improved confidentiality enhances the success of partner notification efforts.
Public health officials acknowledge that the success of partner notification is limited by perceived and actual breaches in confidentiality. The ultimate result will be more effective partner notification. Maximizing partner notification programs depends on increased funding for training and support, not on HIV name reporting. Providing funding to improve training regarding the help clients might need in communicating with their partners is the best means for improving partner notification systems.