Abstract

KIE: The author contends that reliance cannot be placed on the law to protect the confidentiality of medical data and identity of persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). He demonstrates how the law may be used to compel, justify, tolerate, and excuse disclosure of information. Dickens argues that, rather than enacting further legislation in an attempt to protect confidentiality, laws against discrimination in education, employment, housing, insurance, and access to medical care should be strengthened and enforced in cases involving persons infected with HIV.