After being told it needed a license to continue operating, the Adult Industry Medical Healthcare Foundation (or AIM) — which administers HIV testing for much of the porn industry and was at the center of controversy when it identified “Patient Zeta,” Derrick Burts, as testing positiCalifornia Department of Public Health — applied for one. The California Department of Public Health has responded: you’re not getting it.
The LAT reports on the health officials’ decision:
California Department of Public Health officials have notified the San Fernando-based health clinic that serves the porn industry that its application to operate as a community clinic has been denied, according to department officials. It was unclear late Wednesday what effect the state’s denial would have on the Adult Industry Medical Healthcare Foundation, known as AIM, which producers of straight porn rely on to test performers for sexually transmitted diseases before filming begins. The industry began voluntary testing in an effort to keep state regulators appeased and avoid further regulations.
Clinic officials had applied for a license in June after authorities told them they needed one to continue operating, said Al Lundeen, a department spokesman. He said the clinic was notified of the state’s decision Tuesday. “Our staff will be in contact to discuss [the] next steps,” said Lundeen, who said as of Wednesday the clinic remained open.
It’s unclear why their application was denied, but I’m curious whether supposedly lying about how Burts contracted HIV is a factor.
EdWoody
Once again, gibberish in the middle of the text.
and AIM didn’t identify Burts – he identified himself.
Caitlin
Really? Really? You guys SERIOUSLY need to get better editors.
testtington
Who wrote this garbage? I seriously had to read the part before the pull quote 3 times to make any sense of it…also what is a Burts? Is it a proper name? A profession? I’ve heard of fluffers what ar burts?
jason
I’ve got a feeling that AIM was trying to demonize male-male sexuality. Keep in mind that AIM is heavily connected to the straight porn industry, an industry which portrays female-female sexuality as being “normal” but male-male sexuality as being “abnormal”.
AIM is also connected to former porn performer Sharon Mitchell. Sharon Mitchell performed in straight porn productions during the 1980’s and 90’s. She performed lesbian scenes for the benefit of sleazy straight guys. She served patriarchy, not the GLBT cause.