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._ transportation to medical care;
._ assistance with insurance coverage, housing, civil rights issues.
88. Where can persons concerned about AIDS get HIVantibody testing?
Anonymous antibody testing is provided through the Department of
Health1s regional offices and some county health clinics for persons who wish
to kno~ if they have been exposed to the virus. The test is free and no names
or addresses are exchanged. Persons receive counseling as to what the test
results mean and preventive actions they may take to minimize further exposure
to the vi rus or potential tr ansmi ss í on to others. For inf ormat; on on the tes t
call 1-800-541-AIDS or the nearest HIV hotline listed on the back cover of
this booklet.
89. Where can AIDS patients get diagnosis and care?
Persons who are concerned about AIDS may contact the State-supported
regional AIDS hotlines (see telephone numbers on back cover) for the names of
doctors who are familiar with the diagnosis and management of AIDS. Referrals
are also provided for AIDS patients seeking dental care, psychiatric
counseling, transportation to medical facilities, and social services.
90. Where are AIDS patients treated?
AIDS patients are treated in hospitals, physician's offices, clinics or
other health care settings, just like any other patients. AIDS patients do
not pose. risk to other patients or to health care workers who follow
reconmended safety precautions.
91. What is New York State doing to ensure that AIDS patients receive
non-d1scrill1natory. humane care?
The State Health Department has developed safety protocols for health
care workers, and also assists hospitals and other medical facilities in
developing in-service training programs for staff. The Health Department
promptly investigates any complaints related to patient care at health care
facilities, and will take enforcement action against any institution that
discriminates against AIDS patients or does not provide appropriate, humane
care.
92. Why doesn't New York State designate special hospitals and nursing
homes to care for AIDS patients to ensure they receive appropriate care?
The State has taken a major new initiative to ensure that AIDS patients
receive the necessary medical, social and psychological support services. The
State Health Department has designated a number of AIDS Care Centers which are
respon.sibl. for Illnaging the tota l care package for a person with AIDS.
'servtces include: inpatient and outpatient care, nursing home care, home
health care, dentistry, psychological and social counseling, and, if need be,
housing.
93. Who pays for treatment of AIDS'¡patients?
Care for AIDS patients is paid for by the same means as all medical
care; the government (Medicaid and Medicare), insurance companies and
individuals. Most insurance policies cover AIDS medical treatment, although
most have maximum allowances. The cost of care for an AIDS patient can range
from $50,000 to $100,000.
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