Comments on: National HIV Testing Day Twitter Town Hall – June 3, 2010

By: Cressycat

Cressycat — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:28:14 +0000

Hello, Thank you for facilitating this cutting-edge forum. It really helped a little cat like myself get my ideas heard by lots of people – without the fear of being stepped on. I will be using the tips and tweets here today in my efforts to encourage folks on Twitter to get tested for HIV. I have found that many people like following me-a little cat-but not necessarily the CDC or other health entities. It scares them too much. Anyway, this afternoon was most edifying – and completely meow-tastic!

By: Alexis Ortega

Alexis Ortega — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:28:00 +0000

@Nels – as far as the pre-existing condition thing goes, with the recent Health Care Reform legislation, that should no longer be a problem in the near future. There are also many good service providers and Aids Service Organizations nationwide that can provide medical care for people diagnosed with HIV, using the crucial funds that we fight for.
Second, according to Lamba Legal, in Missouri, the key aspect of the law is disclosure. “It is also unlawful for a person knowingly infected with HIV to act in a reckless manner by exposing another person to HIV without the knowledge and consent of that person, in any of the following manners..” Please correct me if I’m wrong.
The arguments you put forth primarily sound like people’s fear and insecurity about knowing their status. Everyone experiences fear and insecurity. To those people I would say it is better to be empowered with the knowledge than potentially hurt the people you love.

By: Nels

Nels — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:43:54 +0000

Getting people to take the test is always going to be complicated by two factors. One, a lot of people are afraid of being labeled with a pre-existing condition when it comes to health insurance. Two, many, many states make typical ordinary activities illegal for those with HIV. I mean, Missouri still makes it criminal to be HIV+ and have sex with someone while using a condom even if you disclose to your partner! I know a lot of people who believe it’s better not to get tested and not know you are engaging in an illegal activity than to get tested and have to face persecution. I’ve never been able to come up with an argument to counteract either of those points.

By: Kenneth Patterson

Kenneth Patterson — Wed, 26 May 2010 17:26:09 +0000

It is so affirming to see HIV/AIDS prevention efforts keeping step with the latest technological advances. As an education professional, it is refreshing to see so much happening in this field… effectively educating and informing people. Keep up the great work! Take the test. Take control.

By: julie

julie — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:06:14 +0000

I don’t know that much about twitter or how it works, but I think anything that raises awareness about HIV can only be positive. I’m going to be sure and understand how twitter works before June 3rd so that I am an active participant!

By: Karyn Brianne

Karyn Brianne — Tue, 25 May 2010 17:24:48 +0000

This is very cool! The Red Pump Project is all about using social media to promote awareness, and we’re looking forward to participating in the Twitter Townhall!
Karyn, Co-Founder of The Red Pump Project
@redpumpproj

By: David Stupplebeen

David Stupplebeen — Tue, 25 May 2010 17:18:09 +0000

Can’t wait!