NCJ Number
116219
Journal
New England Journal of Public Policy Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter/Spring 1988) Pages: 227-249
Date Published
1988
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This discussion of major public health issues raised by the AIDS epidemic argues that while the civil rights of individuals may have to be sacrificed to slow the spread of the disease, those rights should not be abandoned unless a clear benefit to the public health would result.
Abstract
The analysis focuses on major issues related to AIDS, including testing, contact tracing, quarantine, mandatory public education, criminal law revision, and discrimination in housing, employment, insurance, and medical services. It notes that discussions of these issues are involving elected officials, governmental agencies, businesses, the medical community, and individuals. Issues are considered to determine whether additional protections for individuals or whether the applications of measures such as the use of criminal statutes could have a beneficial effect. The effect of AIDS on personal, private, and religious beliefs is considered, and a legal perspective is applied to the various implications of the epidemic. The discussion concludes that no simple or easy answers exist and that education, compassion, and concern for the health of everyone are crucial. 91 reference notes. (Author abstract modified)