Do all clinics and private physicians offer pre and post-test counseling?
Although it is not mandatory, ethical practice demands the provision of appropriate counseling both before and after clients take the HIV test. Individuals may want to check with the clinic or physician before taking the tests. It is, however, important to seek testing at a place that provides counseling about HIV and AIDS. Counselors can answer any questions about risky behavior and protection of self and others. In addition, they can help individuals understand the meaning of the test results and refer them to available AIDS-related resources in their locality. What is informed consent? Answer: Informed consent, in the context of HIV antibody testing, is legally defined to require practitioners to disclose to clients both the risks and the benefits of the HIV test, and the alternatives to the test. It is also to ensure that clients demonstrate the mental capacity to understand this information and freely agree, without coercion, to have the test performed. Can I be tested for HIV wit
