What your providers want you to know
“We want to help”
AT PHSD, you are cared for by HIV experts offering you comprehensive resources from transportation and housing aid to nutrition and financial counseling. Everything in life ties together, let us know your needs. Stay in care.
“Be consistent with your medications”
A vital way to suppress the virus and protect your partner(s) from infection is a consistent regiment for taking your medication. “Plan ahead so you do not run out of medicine,” maintains Dr. Nijhawan. Ask us about using a mail-order pharmacy. Tell us when you are having side effects from medication. “There are different drug regimens and your team will work with you to find the drug with the least side effects for you,” explains Dr. Zoellner at the Ron J. Anderson Pharmacy.
“Quit smoking now”
It is not easy to quit, but it is the best way a person can improve their health. Continuing to smoke when you have HIV is not an option. “Tobacco products can make it more difficult to fight off serious infections,” clarifies Dr. Akers. Talk with your medical team about program options to help you make healthy decisions.
“Focus on your mental health”
“The people closest to you should be part of your care plan,” says Dr. Lau a provider who understands the emotional stress, depression, and isolation of learning to live with HIV. PHSD offers free counseling for patients undergoing mental or emotional difficulties. Ask about a referral to a mental health provider.
“Ask about supplements”
It is great you want to boost your health but talk with your provider. “Vitamins, herb, and supplements may interfere with HIV drug therapy,” reminds Sadaf Ramazani, a dietician at the ACCESS Clinic. “Don’t unknowingly set-back your therapy,” she warns. List supplement information in your personal records and tell your healthcare providers and pharmacist about what supplements you take.
“Establish whole body care”
“Although HIV is a chronic disease, few people die from it,” explains Dr. Luque, PHSD medical director. Everyone should be aware of how to reduce their health risks. That means eating right, exercising regularly, and receiving recommended screening tests.
“Voice what HIV means to you”
“Tell us what the disease means to you. Understanding you helps us” maintains Dr. Chow. Treatment means different things to different people. Perhaps you are ready to start dating again or you want to start a family; tell us about your plans and let us help make them happen.
“Vote - your voice matters”
Public policy for healthcare is decided by government representatives and tremendously impacts your care. “Be aware of how your vote can impact your healthcare."