NYC to launch AIDS monitoring program

New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden proposed changes to state laws that will radically alter the way in which public health authorities track HIV/AIDS. The changes would modify state privacy laws written in the 1980s that it make it difficult for the government to track patients with HIV/AIDS. Frieden also wants testing to become to "a routine" element of medical care. Privacy groups have staunchly resisted, fearing patients might face discrimination. The impact of the proposals is likely to be felt across the country as other states consider similar experiments. The Frieden plan has been endorsed by New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

- see this article from The New York Times