Which of the following statements is true regarding the request for an HIV test by an insurance company?

The statement that requires written consent from the applicant is accurate due to legal and ethical regulations concerning privacy and discrimination. Insurance companies must obtain explicit consent from individuals before conducting HIV tests as part of the underwriting process. This requirement protects applicants' rights and ensures that they are fully aware and agreeable to the test being performed.

Such consent is not only a vital aspect of respecting an individual's autonomy over their personal health information but also aligns with broader legal frameworks designed to prevent discrimination based on health status. This means even if an applicant has health information that might suggest a higher risk for HIV, insurers cannot assume or mandate testing without obtaining clear permission.

The other options do not align with the established legal and ethical guidelines surrounding HIV testing in the context of insurance underwriting. For instance, testing cannot be requested solely based on sexual orientation, must be part of a comprehensive assessment rather than stand-alone, and must occur prior to policy issuance to ensure informed underwriting decisions.