Anonymous HIV testing: the impact of availability on demand in Arizona

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of anonymous testing availability on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test demand in Arizona. Testing patterns before and after the introduction of anonymous testing were compared, Client knowledge of new test policy and delay in testing until an anonymous option was available were assessed. Test numbers among men who have sex with men showed a statistically significant increase after introduction of an anonymous testing option. Arizona continues to maintain anonymous testing availability. Public health agencies should consider how test policy may influence people's HIV test decisions. (Am J Public Health. 1994;84:2008-2010)
Homosexual men may be more likely to undergo HIV testing if they can remain anonymous. County health departments in Arizona experienced a significant increase of 16.1% in HIV tests during the five months following a policy change to anonymous testing. Men who have sex with other men appeared more likely to wait until confidential testing was available than other groups, such as injection drug users. This testing increase continued over a 20-month period. Persons at high risk for HIV infection may be more likely to seek anonymous testing for privacy reasons. However, in order to secure public funding for HIV care and to continue communication with an infected patient, named reporting also needs to be integrated into a comprehensive health policy.