One of the earliest decisions an HIV-positive person must make is also one of the most critical: choosing a physician and starting a program of care.
Studies show that a doctor’s knowledge level and experience with HIV makes a major difference in a poz person’s survival. Medical education doesn’t prepare MDs to treat HIV/AIDS. It’s really a specialty, and the ol’ family doctor may not qualify. A doc needs to have cared for at least 25 patients under the supervision of an HIV-experienced MD, as well as keep up with new developments in HIV care.
HIV care isn’t the same as taking medications. If someone’s immune system is still functioning pretty well, decisions about starting treatment (the “drug cocktail”) may be years away. However, that immune system needs to be monitored two to four times per year to keep track of what’s happening, by measuring T4/CD4 cells and virus level.
It’s important to have an MD with whom you can communicate well. An HIV doc should also work with patients in partnership, helping them arrive at decisions that are right for them as individuals. If expertise, open communication, and trust aren’t present, then perhaps changing physicians might be considered.
If you need help finding an HIV doctor, call the Information & Referral desk at AIDS Services of Austin (458-AIDS). We maintain a list of recommended physicians in Central Texas and will be glad to provide some guidance on making a decision.
This article appears in May 13 • 2005.