Nationwide, more than 100 people become HIV-infected each day, and there is one AIDS death every 12 minutes. These numbers must be turned around. The actual test itself requires a small sample of your blood and is no more painful or dangerous than any other blood test. You have a right to complete privacy during the office visit and to absolute confidentiality regarding your results. The test provider is required by law to obtain in writing your legal informed consent to be tested.
Laws vary from state to state.
In New York, the law provides for either confidential or anonymous testing. In New York, this confirmatory testing is mandatory and is called the Western Blot. Your test provider should never charge your for confirmatory testing. Fear and worry are common feelings for those being tested, and counseling can alleviate those feelings by helping you clearly understand what your test results mean. Make sure that you receive counseling both before and after the test.