HIV Testing Requirement for Immigrants and Visitors to the United States: Time to Reconsider?

As the United States expands its leadership and commitment to fight HIV/AIDS both inside and outside its borders, it may be time to reconsider current HIV testing requirements for prospective immigrants. Is the exclusion law serving U.S. interests in promoting public health at home and helping staunch the spread of HIV/AIDS worldwide? Currently, the benefits of the policy are uncertain and undemonstrated. Are there nonfinancial costs associated with current policy? This paper argues for a thoughtful reexamination of costs and benefits associated with the requirement and options for adjustments if warranted.
 

J. Stephen Morrison