Section 39Sec./Art. 39

Care and Support Program in Prisons and Others Closed-Setting Institutions. - All prisons, rehabilitation centers, and other closed-setting institutions shall have comprehensive STI, HIV and AIDS prevention and control program that includes HIV education and information, HIV counseling and testing, and access to HIV treatment and care services. The DOH, in coordination with DILG, DOJ, and DSWD, shall develop HIV and AIDS comprehensive programs and policies, which include the HIV counseling and testing procedures in prisons, rehabilitation centers, and other closed-setting institutions.

PLHIV in prisons, rehabilitation centers, and other closed settings institutions shall be provided HIV treatment, which includes anti-retroviral drugs, care, and support in accordance with the national guidelines. Efforts should be undertaken to ensure the continuity of care at all stages, from admission or imprisonment to release. The provision on informed consent and confidentiality shall also apply in closed-setting institutions.