It is the policy of the University of Florida to assess the needs of students or employees with HIV infection or other communicable diseases on a case-by-case basis. If any such infection occurs in a College of Medicine student, any recommendations made or actions taken by the COM or SPAS will respect the confidentiality and welfare of the student while also recognizing and responding to issues regarding the welfare of patients, the COM, SPAS and the hospital and outpatient clinics. Each student’s situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. With the permission of the affected student, the Director of the Student Health Care Center (a physician) will assist in the coordination of resources and services.
Currently, the UF College of Medicine does not require routine HIV testing of patients, students, or healthcare workers. However, it is certainly prudent for individual healthcare workers, including students, to be aware of their own individual HIV status so that they can take appropriate precautions and measures. With current advances in the treatment of HIV infection, early intervention can be crucial in maintaining well-being and delaying complications of the illness. If future state or federal legislation were to change guidelines or requirements for HIV testing of healthcare workers or healthcare students, the College of Medicine will comply as required.
In the event of potential bloodborne pathogen exposure in a student, the medical provider will recommend HIV testing as a baseline and also follow-up intervals of 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. When testing is medically advisable, it is subject to informed consent, and results are treated confidentially.