AIDS Policy

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Last Updated: Dec 20, 2023, 09:03 AM

[The following was approved on August 26, 1988, in accordance with provisions set forth in SIU Board of Trustees 2 Policies C.]

The following policies are based on the current state of medical knowledge and are subject to change as new information becomes available.

  1. Policy Foundations
    1. University decisions involving persons who suffer from AIDS shall be based on current and well-informed medical information.
    2. Current prevailing medical authorities agree that AIDS is not communicated through casual contact but requires intimate sexual contact or exchange of bodily fluids.
    3. For the purpose of this policy statement, the term "AIDS" shall include AIDS, AIDS-Related Complex, and a positive test for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
    4. This policy should be reviewed periodically to ensure that it reflects the most current information available from both governmental and medical authorities.
  2. Non-Discrimination
    1. The university shall not discriminate in enrollment or employment against an individual with AIDS.
    2. No one shall be denied access to campus activities or facilities solely on the ground that they suffer from AIDS.
  3. Confidentiality
    1. The university shall comply with all pertinent statutes and regulations which protect the privacy and welfare of persons in the university community who suffer from AIDS as well as the welfare of others within the university community.
    2. The university will maintain procedural safeguards throughout the university with the objective of protecting the privacy of persons living with AIDS.
    3. All confidential medical information about an individual will be handled in compliance with legal requirements and professional ethical standards.
    4. The university will not disclose the identity of any student or employee who has AIDS, except as authorized by law or pursuant to guidelines following the general standards included in the American College Health Association's Recommended Standards and Practices for a College Health Program, fourth edition:

    In general, it is recommended that no specific or detailed information concerning complaints or diagnosis be provided to faculty, administrators, or even parents, without the expressed written consent of the patient in each case.

  4. University Responsibilities
    1. The university shall develop and maintain a comprehensive educational program about AIDS.
    2. The university shall identify sources of competent and confidential testing for AIDS as well as counseling services upon request.
    3. The university shall identify sources of qualified medical care and encourage those with AIDS to utilize such sources.
    4. The university shall adopt and implement safety guidelines as proposed by the U.S. Public Health Service for handling and disposing of blood and other body fluids.
    5. Decisions in all situations involving students or employees with health problems are to be made on a case by case basis, based on the medical facts in each case and with concern for the confidentiality and best interests of all parties involved. The chancellor or designee shall identify the person(s) to be involved in each case.