Old racial policies still affect HIV/AIDS in the new South Africa
Sandman, J.
Journal of the International Association of Physicians in Aids Care 2(7): 32-33
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 1081-454X PMID: 11363742 Document Number: 309475
Port Elizabeth, a seaport in South Africa, is suffering from consequences of the AIDS epidemic. The port's three hospitals were organized to conform to policies under apartheid, and the facilities still receive patients based on race due to dated racial policies. HIV seropositivity is divided along racial lines, yet most hospitals will frequently not perform an HIV-antibody test if it is requested by a colored person. Persons who are HIV-positive sometimes lose their jobs or housing, and are subject to violence. In addition, many employers require prospective employees to take an HIV-antibody test prior to being hired as a measure to avoid paying expensive benefits. Public health officials are trying to change these policies and implement prevention and education programs.