Mandatory HIV Testing of Newborns: The Debate and a Programmatic Response

Abstract

The U.S. Congress is considering legislation—H.R. 1872—that would require mandatory HIV testing of all newborns except those whose mothers were tested during pregnancy. This article presents a detailed analysis of the complex issues involved in the proposed legislation. It also describes the authors' programmatic response that incorporates feminist and social work values, given the likely passage of the bill. This response includes the anticipated social service needs (education and supportive counseling) of mothers whose HIV status is revealed through tests of newborns.