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The case against compulsory casefinding in controlling AIDS--testing, screening and reporting.

L O Gostin·W J Curran·M E Clark
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Abstract

The spread of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) demands a comprehensive and effective public health response. Because no treatment or vaccine is currently available, traditional infection control measures are being considered. Proposals include compulsory testing and screening of selected high risk populations. The fairness and accuracy of compulsory screening programs depend upon the reliability of medical technology and the balancing of public health and individual confidentiality interests. This Article proposes criteria for evaluating compulsory testing and screening programs. It concludes that voluntary identification, education, and counselling of infected persons is the most effective means of encouraging the behavioral changes that are necessary to halt the spread of AIDS.

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Acquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAdultBehavior ControlChildCommunity Health CentersConfidentialityCounselingDisclosureEnzyme-Linked Immunosorbent AssayFederal GovernmentHealth PolicyHealth WorkforceHumansMass ScreeningMilitary PersonnelPatientsPremarital ExaminationsPrisonsRiskSchoolsTissue DonorsUnited StatesVoluntary ProgramsAnalytical ApproachDepartment of DefenseHealth Care and Public HealthLegal ApproachPublic Health ServiceRehabilitation Act 1973Journal Article

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L O Gostin, W J Curran, M E Clark. 1987. The case against compulsory casefinding in controlling AIDS--testing, screening and reporting.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3661578/

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