Definition: In contrast to opt-in testing, opt-out testing is where physician or other healthcare provider tests you for a disease or condition unless you specifically refuse the test. Although most standard blood tests are done as opt-out tests, until recently HIV testing was done on an opt-in basis. This is changing with new universal testing guidelines.
Examples: How does opt-out testing work? If you're over 35, your doctor might say to you, "I'm going to test your cholesterol, and then you should come back in a week for the results," and then they will test your cholesterol unless you opt-out by asking them not to.
