What is the difference between anonymous and confidential testing?
Anonymous testing refers to testing in which a person is identified by number only. They are never required to give an identifying name. Results are checked with the number that is assigned to each person. Free anonymous testing is offered at the Student Health Center through an outside agency at various points in the academic year. To learn more about anonymous testing dates, contact the Student Health Center. Confidential testing refers to testing in which a person is only identifiable by name with the person doing the testing and one-on-one counseling. The identity of the person being tested is never shared with anyone outside the counselor relationship.
Confidential testing means that the results of any HIV test performed will not be revealed to anybody except designated clinic staff, and in some cases, specific public health officials. Confidential testing will usually require a person to give their details (name, age, address) to the clinic performing the test. They then have to contact or return to the clinic after to get the results (unless a rapid test is used). In the UK most confidential testing is done at Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM) or sexual health clinics. The clinics are legally bound to not reveal personal details and test results. GPs and private doctors also perform HIV tests, but the fact a person has had an HIV test, and the results, will appear on their medical records. In other countries, such as America, clinics have to notify public health officials of a person’s personal details if they test positive for HIV.
Anonymous testing does not require name, address, or any other identifying information. Usually you are given a number that you must present in person to obtain the test result. The only people who will know your result are those you decide to tell. Confidential testing means the result is protected information, like other parts of your medical record. However, if you grant permission to release your medical record, be aware that your test result is included.
Confidential testing means that the results of any HIV test performed will not be revealed to anybody except designated clinic staff, and in some cases, specific public health officials. However, American public health centers are required to report information to governmental entities, notifying public health officials of a person’s personal details if they test positive for HIV. GPs and private doctors also perform HIV tests, but the fact a person has had an HIV test, and the results, will appear on their medical records. In America, clinics have to notify public health officials of a person’s personal details if they test positive for HIV. In cases where an individual does not want their name associated with their test, anonymous HIV testing may also be offered. Anonymous testing can either be ensured by a patient giving a false name and address (which can create difficulties if a person tests positive and needs to be informed), or can be specifically requested. In the US, a patient
Confidential testing means that the results of any HIV test performed will not be revealed to anybody except designated clinic staff. In cases where an individual does not want their name associated with their test, anonymous HIV testing may also be offered. It can either be ensured by a patient giving a false name and address or can be specifically requested.
