Push for Routine Offers of HIV Tests

Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, is pushing for a radical change in South Africa’s approach to HIV testing, proposing that doctors and nurses routinely offer screening to all their patients instead of waiting for them to volunteer or get AIDS-related illnesses.

Motsoaledi says that he expects the Cabinet and other leaders to be at the forefront of a huge public HIV testing campaign, possibly on World AIDS Day on 1 December.

“I will ask him (President Jacob Zuma) to be in front of the queue, and indications are that he will agree. And I told the bishops to lead their flocks,” says Motsoaledi, referring to a recent meeting with religious leaders.

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