Many people who seek anonymous HIV-antibody testing would avoid it under other circumstances

Abstract

Decreases in the high-risk behavior have been observed when people have sought anonymous or confidential HIV-antibody testing accompanied by counseling. HIV-antibody testing also benefits those who are tested, since people who find that they are seropositive can receive closer medical follow-up, and, in certain cases, medical treatment. However, debates continue about appropriate testing policy. This study concerns the conditions under which people who are currently seeking anonymous testing at an alternative test site would be willing to obtain testing. On self-administered questionnaires all sexual oreintation/gender groups expressed reluctance to obtain testing if anonymity were not assured. Bisexual men were especially concerned about seeking testing if there was mandatory reporting. Believing that one was infected with HIV was sligthly associated with a decreased inclination to obtain testing under non-anonymous circumstances.