The Adult Industry Medical Healthcare Foundation was an organization that promotes sexual health education and oversees STI and STD testing for adults actors. Founded by Sharon Mitchell, former adult film performer, producer, and director, in 1998, the foundation combated HIV and disease outbreaks within the industry. Based in California, the organization had local clinics in San Fernando Valley, Sherman Oaks, and Granada Hills. However, the organization was shut down in 2011.

History

The foundation has consistently attempted to make condom use on-set required and enforced on state and local levels in California. However, limited manpower and oversight hinders legal efforts. The organization has also assisted in an adult film industry quarantines, such as in 2004 and 2010, following potential HIV outbreaks caused by unprotected sex with unidentified HIV positive porn actors.

In 2011, the AID Healthcare Foundation questioned the Adult Industry Medical Healthcare Foundation’s clinic licenses, resulting in a subsequent shutdown. The foundation soon reopened under private ownership as the AIM Medical Associates P.C. to avoid extensive regulation by L.A County health authorities. However, in May of 2011, AIM closed and filed for bankruptcy as a result of a major privacy lawsuit following a data breach releasing the confidential information of 12,000 actors.

Services

AIM primarily worked to increase regular HIV and STD testing among erotic performers. AIM clinics offer early detection HIV PCR DNA tests, offering next day results. Their other major services are STD testing and treatment. Generally, performers must pay for their own testing, and to sign a consent form that the results may be shared with other performers and producers. They also validated the accuracy of third-party testing, recorded these test results, and made them accessible through their AIM Check (also known as SxCheck) website, to help producers and other actors identify those who could transmit diseases. Monthly regular testing involved at least 1,200 actors, with tests being effective 10 days after transmission.

AIM clinics also offer services for the general public, including confidential testing, diagnostic testing, general exams, and referrals, as well as services for gay men and male actors’ health, including erectile enhancement medications, rectal paps, and sexual enhancement products.

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Author - Sara Stevens