HIV antibody testing is available through most public health departments, clinics, or private physicians. The National Education Association believes that HIV antibody testing should only be provided on a voluntary basis and with counseling both before and after the test. Different states have varying policies on HIV antibody testing. Confidential testing requires that you give your name, and your test results become part of your private medical records. While all states have taken steps to ensure the confidentiality of your test results, it is possible that your results may be disclosed by a court order, or accidentally by those persons who are permitted access to your private medical records.
Most states require the reporting of positive test results to health officials.
This arrangement ensures that only you get the results. However, if you test positive and request treatment, you must give a name. Anonymous testing is often available at clinics or alternative health sites, or through public health departments. At public testing locations, you may have to make an appointment, and there may be a wait. Confidential testing can also be accomplished through private physicians or some biomedical laboratories, however these results may become part of your medical records and may be disclosed without your permission as described above.