Q: I am HIV positive, and I have a new doctor specifically for managing my HIV treatment. I need another doctor for other health issues, such as colds and such, but my question is, do I need to tell my new doctor I have HIV?
A: Medicine today is hyper-specialized. There are specific doctors for every nook and cranny of your body. In order to coordinate your overall health, your primary care doctor should know ALL your medical issues, and be in contact with all your specialists, such as your HIV physician. Many types of medication can interact with HIV meds, and this is one example as to why this type of overlapping communication is important. Please do share your HIV information with your primary care doc.
If you are at all concerned that your current provider may not be LGBT or HIV friendly, check out the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association provider list to find one that will make you feel more comfortable. You can't be treated effectively unless you're completely honest and trust your healthcare providers. You deserve nothing less. Good luck. -- Bryan McColgan, M.D.
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