HIV testing in Argentina: legal advances and persistent challenges

Abstract

In recent decades, Argentina has developed a comprehensive health policy for testing for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), adapting to the social and epidemiological changes in the country and in Latin America. Since the passing of the National AIDS Law (No. 23,798) in 1990, and especially after its update with Law 27,675 in 2022, free, voluntary, confidential and non-prescription access to HIV testing was consolidated in both the public and private systems. This legislation promoted an approach based on human rights, a gender perspective, diversity and the elimination of structural barriers. The Ministry of Health promoted strategies such as rapid testing, which offered results in minutes and was applied in community and mobile settings. These actions, accompanied by national campaigns and the strong involvement of social organisations, facilitated early detection and the immediate start of treatment. However, challenges persisted related to stigma, lack of information, regional inequalities and access in key populations. Compared to other Latin American countries, Argentina led the way in inclusive regulations, while many still maintained restrictive requirements for testing. Argentina also adhered to global targets such as UNAIDS' 95-95-95 and the “Treatment for All” approach, standing out as a regional example. However, the success of its policies depended on their effective territorial implementation, continuous training and sustained political commitment to consolidate a stigma-free testing culture.