September 3, 2008

California Bill to Require Coverage of Routine HIV Tests

A California bill that will require insurance companies to cover routine HIV testing in clinical and health care settings—the first of its kind in the nation—passed the state legislature in late August, MarketWatch reports. The bill now heads to Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for signing.

“This important bill creates an environment in which testing will become routine and more Californians will know their HIV status, get linked to care as needed, and have an overall better quality of life,” said Assembly Member Paul Krekorian (D–Burbank). “It helps encourage widespread and routine HIV testing throughout California—something the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] first recommended nationwide nearly two years ago. It is prudent legislation that will save lives.”

The bill—AB 1894—is sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and is supported by the San Francisco AIDS Foundation; the Center for AIDS Research, Education and Services (CARES); the California Nurses Association; and the California Medical Association.

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Frank W., Columbus, 2008-09-05 07:10:23
This all seems very cut and dry to me. There is no room for margin. Its either black or white, can't be Grey on this one. Its simply, and anyone in the health care field, cop, fireman etc... They all HAVE TO TREAT EVERYONE AS INFECTED ! No if and or buts. And all you should to protect yourself too if ever put in a situation where there is risk of transmission of HIV. And YES even if your POZ or not.