T M Meehan1, H Hansen, W C Klein. 1. HIV/AIDS Bureau, Massachussetts Department of Public Health, Boston 02108, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This investigation assessed change in use of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing by minors after removal of the parental consent requirement in Connecticut. METHODS: HIV counseling and testing records for 13- to 17-year-olds who accessed publicly funded testing sites were analyzed. RESULTS: The number of visits increased by 44% from the 12-month period before the statutory change (n = 656) to the 12-month period thereafter (n = 965). The number of HIV tests increased twofold. Visits and tests of high-risk minors tripled. CONCLUSIONS: Minors should have the right to consent to HIV testing.
OBJECTIVES: This investigation assessed change in use of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing by minors after removal of the parental consent requirement in Connecticut. METHODS:HIV counseling and testing records for 13- to 17-year-olds who accessed publicly funded testing sites were analyzed. RESULTS: The number of visits increased by 44% from the 12-month period before the statutory change (n = 656) to the 12-month period thereafter (n = 965). The number of HIV tests increased twofold. Visits and tests of high-risk minors tripled. CONCLUSIONS: Minors should have the right to consent to HIV testing.
Entities:
Keywords:
Empirical Approach; Health Care and Public Health; Legal Approach; Professional Patient Relationship