HIV Testing May Get Easier in Massachusetts

HIV Testing May Get Easier in Massachusetts. The State Senate has just passed a bill that would drop the written consent requirement for HIV testing in favor of basic verbal consent. If passed, it would bring Massachusetts up to speed with 48 other states and CDC recommendations. It’s a small step, but one with a huge potential effect — after a similar rule was dropped in San Francisco, HIV testing went up by 44 percent. 44 percent! According to state officials, there are 5,000 Mass. residents who don’t know they have the disease, and if we had similar results, we’d cut that number almost in half. The bill goes now to the House, and if it passes there, the governor’s desk. Keep your fingers crossed, Massachusetts! [Boston.com]