Final for Hcr/220

HIPAA Privacy Regulations Concerning a Patient with HIV/AIDS

HIV and AIDS is Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection that destroys CD4 helper lymphocytes and T cells, which are essential in aiding the body to fight off diseases. This viral infection attacks the immune system. If the infection is not detected and treated, the immune system gradually weakens where the immune system can no longer fight or defend itself from other infections. This then advances to the end stage, which is known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV/AIDS has been around for the last 30 year and was first linked to homosexuals (Gay men) having anal sex. However, many acquired the disease during blood transfusions before blood donations were tested. Today this disease is spreading rapidly through unprotected and/or promiscuous sex, anal sex, oral sex (Semen and bodily fluids), and IV drug users sharing needles (Blood), during pregnancy/childbirth from infected mothers, and through breast milk (Nursing). The infected individual may not experience any signs or symptoms for 10 years or more and if they do they may think it is the flu or some other less evasive illness.

There are many ramifications for an individual that tests positive with HIV. First, in my opinion, with no signs or symptoms for many years or more, the individual could be spreading the HIV virus infecting others unknowingly. If they have not been tested and have HIV and are having unprotected sex with another person there are great chances for transmitting the viral infection to others unknowingly, which is a huge ramification in my opinion verses the ramifications one could face if knowingly they are HIV positive and have unprotected sex or shares needles with other drug users. Treatment is available today but there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, which is why actions of imprisonment and lawsuits have been brought against those knowingly spreading this viral infection.

Confidentiality of one’s...