AIDS-HIV Testing and Counseling

As many of you are aware, counseling and testing for the AIDS antibody has become a mandatory part of health care for the safety of you, your baby and your health care team.

This counseling and testing will be arranged through our office and is STRICTLY confidential. The information is recorded in the patient’s medical record and the result is protected from unauthorized disclosure by State and Federal law.

Confidential testing in a medical office provides an opportunity for follow-up medical care and services as needed. Two appointments are necessary and are included in your regular OB care:

• The first appointment includes counseling and information about HIV antibody testing, transmission and prevention. A blood sample is obtained at the same time as other obstetric bloodwork. You may have this testing done at Glens Falls Hospital or at any of the Glens Falls Hospital Draw Stations.
• The second visit is made to review the lab result, its meaning and to provide further information and referrals if needed in order to prevent or decrease transmission of HIV to your unborn baby.

If HIV testing is declined during the course of your pregnancy, please be aware that New York State Law requires that your newborn have this testing while in the hospital after you deliver. Until the testing is completed, your baby will be isolated in the nursery and you will be unable to breastfeed until the results are known.