HIV in general practice.
Jim's story illustrates many issues. The importance of the GP in any chronic condition is highlighted. In Jim's case he was never actually sick. All his visits were for monitoring, counselling, preventive medicine and co-ordinating other health care workers. There is a fine line between performing these vital functions and 'over-medicalising' a well person. All areas of Jim's life were touched by his diagnosis--work, recreation, relationships and sex--all had to be included in his overall management. I had to face my own difficulties in dealing with the potential tragedy of Jim's situation and maintain a personal detachment. An obvious friendship had developed between us and I too dreaded every blood count and new symptom in case it was a sign of deterioration. My discomfort was made worse by my inexperience with HIV and I had to struggle to keep ahead of Jim with regard to information about new medication and research findings. Jim experienced the usual grief reactions and emotional responses that anyone with bad news must work through. In his situation his lack of support from family or lover left him particularly vulnerable. His dealing with the diagnosis was made that much harder as he saw his partner and friends dying from the same condition. In summary, Jim was a well man who was given a result that changed his life. The principles of his management were the same for every other medical condition in that mind and body, work and play are all important for good care.
Ross
J
J
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D005194:Family Practice; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012017:Referral and Consultation