Proxy consent on AIDS testing tackled

PROXY consent to allow minors age 15 years old to avail testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acute Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV and AIDS) is one of the main topics discussed by the City Council committee on health and sanitation and health insurance chaired by Councilor Maria Lourdes S. Gaane last Thursday.

During the meeting, some of the HIV and AIDS advocates expressed their opinion on the approval of proxy consent to minors.

Representative of MOCAN said she is amenable of the proposal. However, guidelines should be accomplished in implementing proxy consent.

“Guidelines lang kung kinsa pwede maghandle sa proxy consent like social workers, doctors, medical doctors kung kinsa mo-sign sa proxy consent. We need clear guidelines on proxy consent,” she said.

Dr. Joey Retuya of JRBorja General Hospital (JRBGH) said proxy consent is now implemented in Davao because it is being piloted in the said city.

He said testing those below 18 years old can be done through the consent of the parents. However, he said some of the minors are very resourceful whether they are telling the truth or not.

Councilor Gaane said the committee will continue to tackle the proxy consent and to include it in the Local Aids Council meeting to thoroughly study as to the legal basis of the proposal. (JBD)