The need for accessible, comprehensive HIV testing and counseling services in Massachusetts is growing. A 2010 article by the "Boston Globe" cites that of those testing positive for HIV in Massachusetts, one-third of these individuals develop AIDS 60 days from the testing date. Despite the troubling statistics, Massachusetts offers several options for free, confidential and anonymous testing as well as follow-up services, such as housing assistance and counseling.
Massachusetts State Law
Your employer can neither require nor request that you undergo or disclose the results of an HIV test. For all HIV tests and disclosures, the provider must obtain a signed written consent form. If you are under age 18, you can still request a confidential or anonymous HIV test without your parents' permission; providers are not required to inform parents about the results of a minor's HIV test. However, Massachusetts does require that providers report the names and test results of anyone who takes an HIV test to the Massachusetts Department of Health.
Testing Types
All HIV tests in Massachusetts are done confidentially; your testing data and results cannot be released to any inquiring body without your written consent. Some sites also offer the option of anonymous testing; results are reported according to a number assigned to you rather than by your name. The two main types of tests offered in Massachusetts are rapid oral swab tests and standard blood tests. Oral swab tests involve a sample scraping of cheek cells; the results are ready in about 20 minutes. Standard blood tests take a bit more time to process; results are typically reported between one to two weeks after the testing date.
Availability
HIV testing services are offered at several sites throughout Massachusetts. You can request an HIV test through your main health care provider; you may be referred to a hospital lab to process the results. Health centers, family planning clinics and HIV action centers throughout Massachusetts also offer testing services. In western Massachusetts, Tapestry Health clinic operates in multiple locations and offers anonymous HIV testing while individuals residing in the eastern part of the state may access any of the several locations operated by the AIDS Action Committee. Many colleges that host AIDS awareness projects hold rapid testing drives during which time students and faculty may receive free oral swab tests right on campus.
Cost
Many sites throughout Massachusetts offer free testing services at health clinics and family planning clinics. If you opt to get tested through your health care provider, consult your health insurance plan; many plans cover the cost of HIV testing services. Family planning clinics and community health centers typically offer testing services on a sliding scale; you pay what you are able to afford based on your yearly income. You may also purchase an at-home testing kit at most drugstores for about $50.
Counseling Options
All Massachusetts HIV testing sites offer pretest and aftertest counseling for patients. Several privately and publicly funded outreach groups also offer long-term, group and family counseling for those affected by HIV and AIDS. MassCARE, the Massachusetts Community AIDS Resource Enhancement Program, offers group counseling services, family support programs and activity networks for individuals living with HIV. For mental health support and housing assistance, contact the AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts (see Resources). Several publicly funded state drop-in centers offer support services, such as counseling and advocacy groups, for people living, or living with someone, with HIV.
