MI HB4583

Physicians must obtain written or verbal informed consent from patients before ordering HIV tests for diagnostic purposes, with documentation maintained in medical records.

Beginning January 1, 2011, pretest information must include explanation of the test purpose and limitations, how HIV is transmitted and prevented, and patient rights including the right to decline testing and confidentiality protections.

Michigan medical boards must notify all physicians of these requirements by January 1, 2011, and provide the required information materials free of charge upon request.

Patients may request anonymous HIV testing at department-approved testing sites using a coded system that does not identify them, with partner notification procedures applied if results are positive.

Exceptions to informed consent requirements apply in limited circumstances, including exposure incidents involving health workers and when patients are unable to understand information and their legal representative is unavailable.