Information for Potential Participants
What is the Medical Monitoring Project (MMP)?
The Medical Monitoring Project, also called MMP, is a national health survey conducted by your health department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Which areas are participating in MMP?
See the full list of participating areas.
How was I chosen?
To keep people healthy, many health issues in the United States, like rabies, measles, and HIV are reported to the health department. You were randomly selected for this project from a list of people who have received an HIV diagnosis and lived in one of the areas where the health survey is being conducted.
Why should I take part?
By sharing your unique health experiences, you can help us identify and address gaps in services in your community that can affect your health and the health of others.
What will I get if I take part?
You will receive a token of appreciation for taking part in MMP, usually in the form of a gift card. If you like, we can also give you information about where to get medical and social services, like HIV case management services, dental care, and help paying for HIV medication.
Do I have to take part?
No, you do not have to participate. However, please let your local MMP staff know if you decide that you are not interested so they can stop contacting you. You can always contact them later if you change your mind. Also, keep in mind that the survey takes place every year, so you may be randomly chosen again in the future.
Can I stop taking part if I change my mind?
You may leave the survey at any time. There are no penalties or loss of benefits if you choose to leave the survey early.
What kind of information is collected?
We ask basic information, such as your birth month and year, gender, and race, as well as questions about your health care. You do not need to answer any question that you do not want to, and your name is not attached to survey answers. We will also look at your medical record to collect information about medicines you are taking, clinic visits, and lab test results. But again, no information will be sent to CDC that can identify you. A copy of the health survey and form used when we review your medical record can be found here.
How will you protect my personal information?
Protecting your personal information is our main concern. We have rules in place to ensure that our data meet strict federal requirements . Only a number will link your survey answers to your medical record information.
Who else will know my HIV status?
Only health department staff will know your HIV status. These staff have all signed a confidentiality agreement which means that they will not tell anyone your personal information.
Will anything I say be shared with my health care provider or clinic?
Your privacy is our main concern. We will not share your personal responses with your health care provider, clinic, or anyone else.
What do you do with the information you collect and how is it used?
MMP data have been used to increase awareness about different issues that impact people with HIV. For example, CDC has used information from MMP as part of a social media campaign to fight stigma called “Let’s Stop HIV Together.” MMP data have also been used to educate health care providers on ways to improve care for persons with HIV. Data are also used to help secure funding for programs implemented on the local level, such as the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program.
How can I learn more about MMP?
You can contact your health department or call the MMP information line, (404) 639-6475, to learn more about MMP.
