Opt-in and opt-out tests

Published: 30 June 2012

In many healthcare settings, people are offered an HIV test on an 'opt-out' basis. This simply means that the healthcare worker suggests that it would be good idea to take a test, and that it will be carried out unless the patient asks for it not to be done.

The healthcare provider could, for example, say: “We offer HIV testing to everyone at this clinic. We’ll test you unless you say no.”

Patients can refuse consent for an HIV test, just as they can for other investigations and treatments.

An 'opt-in' test simply means that patients need to specifically ask to have an HIV test themselves. Nonetheless healthcare workers may still discuss the benefits of testing, or make patients aware that tests are available.

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.