If you didn't see a doctor when you took your HIV test, consider seeing one soon.  We recommend you choose to be looked after by a hospital specialist in an HIV clinic. You might find it best to always see the same doctor - your relationship with your doctor is just like any other important relationship in life, it takes time and effort for it to grow.

Hospitals - outpatient services

The majority of treatment for HIV is provided by hospitals in Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM), "special" or Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) clinics. These clinics operate under strict confidentiality laws, more than may be said of a GP surgery, and in most big cities clinics have tailored their service delivery to better serve the needs of people living with HIV.

Clinics in areas of the country where HIV is most prevalent will obviously have most experience of dealing with the condition. Research indicates that the patients of doctors dealing with larger numbers of people with HIV fare better than those of doctors with less experience in the field. They are also likely to be clinics where research is conducted. Patients on research studies are often the first to benefit from access to new drugs and up to date treatments.

General Practitioners

Everyone has the right to be registered with a general practitioner (GP).  Make sure you have confidence in your GP and their practice.  If you aren't already registered with a doctor, ask friends who they would recommend. get a list of GP's from a library, Family Health Services Agency / Health Authority, Community Health Council, or ask your HIV clinic for advice.

Telling your GP about your diagnosis might have advantages.  GP's are normally nearer your home than hospitals, they are responsible for providing 24 hour care and can visit you at home if needed.

But, be aware that if an employer or insurer asks your GP for a medical report, while you should be asked if the GP can release information, the GP cannot ethically omit the fact that you are HIV positive if he or she knows it.  Note also that some GP's don't want patients with HIV on their books and may remove you from their list.

A GP can only treat you safely by knowing your whole medical problem : sharing knowledge of your HIV diagnosis might mean that you end up looking for another GP to take you on. Interactions between HIV and other medications are an important consideration : your GP may need to consult with a hospital specialist pharmacist before prescribing you a medicine that might do you more harm than good.

Whilst a GP surgery might be convenient for routine check ups, there are very few GP's with the specialist skills in HIV to manage your condition properly.  Most HIV treatments can only be prescribed by doctors who are skilled in their use. 

In some areas, GP's share the medical care of patients with HIV. If this is the case, your HIV clinic will discuss the matter with you, but it is up to you whether your GP is told anything or involved in your care.

Click the blue arrows to go back to the last page or forward to the next one