The service is expected to be available nationwide in early 1997. According to public health authorities, up to 1 million Americans are infected with HIV and as many as half of them don't know it. Several new treatments for HIV infection can increase the quality and length of life. In addition, a recent treatment breakthrough reduces the transmission of HIV from infected mothers to their babies. It is also estimated that at least 40,000 people become infected with HIV each year.
Many people are reluctant to be tested in a doctor's office or clinic.
CDC data show that two of every three people at risk for contracting HIV have not been tested. The client's anonymity is protected every step of the way. All counselors undergo an extensive training program developed in consultation with the American Social Health Association, which runs the CDC National AIDS Hotline, and Cicatelli Associates, which conducts HIV counselor training programs for the New York State Department of Health. This laboratory provides a result with the same accuracy as testing for HIV conducted in a doctor's office or hospital. This unique number is the only way a sample is identified and the only way a test result can be obtained.