What is the point of this number/special code they gave me after my HIV/AIDS test?

I'm confused. First I went into the clinic and I had to fill out papers giving my name. address ect. but after I took my test they gave me this number and told me I had to show up in person next week. What is the point of me filling out paperwork about myself and then be given an anonymous number? Is the paperwork for the sake of the hospital having a record that I arrived and had a test. to show they're doing there job, but the test results are only matched to my number, meaning only the number is attached to the blood sent to the lab and then sent back to the clinic and they'll only know its mine when I show up in person and show it to them, otherwise they won't know who it belongs to? Is that how it works?

Actually the number should be giving if testing anonymously, however since you gave your name u tested confidentially if it was a large clinic they may file it according to the number and when test results come in the come in by the number that was giving to you at the clinic. The should still be able to give your results without that number. I do both ways at my clinic I give them number and take there name and phone number I have never requested their address. The only identifiers that go to the lab is that number your race your birth date and whether you are male or female. Hope this helps.

Yes - that is how it works.

Yeah, that's for confidentiality.. if you don't have that number memorized or with you, then no test results.

Yep. It's to protect your privacy, in case your results are positive, or you are ashamed that you are being tested.

Personally, I think HIV tests should be part of routine health checks on everyone, much like how they screen for Type 2 diabetes. That way, no one is scared to ask, there is no shame, and more people with be diagnosed.

So I can't call up the clinic or show up and say "Hi my name is Emanuel and I'd like to know the results of my HIV test"

Its like a password.

Giving them your name etc., is probably for billing the government to cover the test cost.

Giving you an non-identifying number allows you complete privacy when you return for your results. And nobody in the lab knows who you are. (that could be someone you know working there and they may violate the code of ethics and mention the results to someone). So the number is just to ensure you get the results without revealing your identity.

yea they ask you for your personal information at the hospital for their own records but as far as there data base goes....you are only known as a number so your HIV tests can remain anonymous whether your results are positive or negative