[char1105]

I am interested in fostering, but have just read somewhere that the children are not tested for HIV/AIDS or any other diseases. Is this possible? I would think surely that they would have to be checked in case for some reason the fostering family did not want to accept them.

[twinflana]

It is true unless there is reason to suspect they are exposed and if they know that they are positive they are not allowed to tell the foster parents due to confidentially issues. However most caseworkers will let you know in a round about way...ie you must take sterile precautions when changing the babies diaper....so far this has not been an issue at all with me and any of my placements.

On the other hand if it is a case of the disease can interfer with the health of the baby then they will tell you because you most know how to treat the child.

[BrandyHagz]

Not only is it true - even if they are, they wouldn't share the results with you, due to HIPPA...at least they don't in Illinois. If you deduct that the child has an issue due to medications taken...thats one thing, but they do NOT share information about HIV or other illnesses...doing so is a violation of the childs right to medical privacy, which is protected by HIPPA.

[AmahMama]

Most of the time workers will let you know there are health issues and make a point of telling you (if you ask) what meds a child is on. That is about the only way you can "deduce" if you want your family exposed to whatever the meds might be for.

I agree with many parts of the HIPPA Act but feel really strongly that this wasn't supposed to be what it was about. Not disclosing dangerous diseases has the potential to harm many more than just the child in question. I wonder if this is actually what the authors of this Act intended. Besides, if you don't know the child has a disease, how can you help to treat it?

But in actuality, no they are bound by law not to come out and say the child is HIV pos or has AIDS.

[char1105]

thank you for all the replys that seems crazy to think that they do not disclose that. What happens if they were to give it to another child and you had no idea? Seems strange, but I understand the child's confidentiality.

[jackiesbooks]

It is true, my bio son was very upset because we all had to have TB testing, but we have no idea if any of the kids have TB.
I did not even mention HIV.

[Mother Goose]

Well, what about the foster parents rights? I'm finding out as if they are out the door. Not sure what to think. I can understand the childs rights as well, but goodness you hear of people getting put in prison because they have transmitted HIV to someone. Granted little kids are innocent, but I really beleive we have a right to know. Its not like we are going to blab it and , well, we are acting as parents. I just don't understand.

[Mother Goose]

I have SOOOOO many questions . Please don't be offended anyone. I want to be a foster mom, but do not agree with so much of what is being presented to me.