PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Agency Contact: Kitty Chan Harlem United Community AIDS Center, Inc.
Senior Director, Administration 306 Lenox Avenue, 3rd Floor
Phone: (917) 435-8082 New York, New York 10027
Email: kchan@harlemunited.org www.harlemunited.org

Statement from the CEO of Harlem United:

Patient Privacy in Fighting the HIV Epidemic Must Be Valued

As the result of an article published yesterday by the New York Post specifically naming Harlem
United housing units as the possible residence of an alleged sexual assault victim, speculation
has been raised regarding the accuser’s HIV status. Numerous media have also subsequently
cited the original article since it appeared.

Harlem United complies with all laws regarding patient privacy and confidentiality, including
federal HIPAA rules and Article 27F in New York State. Therefore, we will not comment to
confirm or deny the services we provide to any individual.

However, we recognize this as a key opportunity to address the much larger issues and obstacles
to care that are inevitably raised for people living with HIV or AIDS when privacy is not valued.

This year marks 30 years since the first case of HIV (then called Gay Related Immunodeficiency
Syndrome or G.R.I.D.) was diagnosed. Since that time, our country has come a long way in our
ability to prevent and treat HIV, as well as our understanding of it. Society has reached a
watershed moment in the history of the HIV epidemic where HIV testing, treatment, and care
can dramatically reduce HIV infections and improve health outcomes for people living with HIV
or AIDS. Unfortunately, HIV-related stigma and discrimination still remain prominent barriers
to reaching individuals who are most in need of HIV testing and care. The social consequences
of an HIV-positive test result far outweigh the clinical consequences in the era of life-saving
anti-viral drugs. All patients deserve privacy regarding their medical histories and information.
However, given the associated stigma, people who have been at risk for HIV must feel even
more confident that their privacy will be protected once they seek testing, treatment and support
in their efforts to live a full life after an HIV-positive diagnosis.

Harlem United is committed to fighting the HIV epidemic in Harlem and throughout New York
City, a goal that relies heavily upon full adherence to patient rights to privacy and
confidentiality. Thus, when media or others attempt to use the lingering fears and
misperceptions of HIV to add sensationalism or hyperbole to a story, they serve only to further
stigmatize the disease and the individuals who live with it. It also creates additional obstacles for
organizations such as ours that work to overcome barriers to trust and compliance with our
clients every day.
We consider the media an important ally in the efforts to disseminate accurate information about
HIV and other related health risks. It is the responsibility of the advocates, government and
media alike to create a more evidence-informed community that is empowered with the
information and skills needed to have an open dialogue and make the right decisions that will
curb the transmission of the disease.

In fact, it is the responsibility of us all.

Steven C. Bussey
CEO
Harlem United

For almost three decades, Harlem United Community AIDS Center has provided high quality
comprehensive HIV care, prevention and housing to clients regardless of race, socio-economic
status or sexual orientation. For more information about Harlem United please visit
www.harlemunited.org .

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