We strive to organize
all patient care through a team approach that
is comprehensive, accessible and personalized.
You may receive care from any number of infectious
disease specialists, including doctors, nurses,
social workers and other health care professionals.
Although there may be many on your care team,
be assured that they communicate regularly with
each other so you receive coordinated care.
Primary Care Providers
Your primary care provider may be a physician
or nurse practitioner.
Physician
You will be cared for by physicians who have
received specialized training in the field of
infectious disease. As MGH is a teaching hospital
affiliated with the Harvard Medical School, doctors
receiving advanced subspecialty medical training,
such as residents and fellows, may also work
with your physician.
Nurse Practitioner
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse
who is certified to practice in an advanced role.
NPs receive training in medicine and infectious
diseases. You may see a nurse practitioner for
a physical exam, a routine visit, diagnosis and
care of treatment-related problems, education,
symptom management, counseling, and referrals
to hospital and community services.
Physician Assistants
A physician assistant (PA) is a licensed health
care provider who works with specific physicians.
They may be involved in aspects of your care
including conducting physical exams and ordering
laboratory tests and other diagnostic procedures.
Registered Nurses
The nursing staff is adept at caring for patients
with infectious diseases. Your nurse works closely
with all members of the team to help you to understand
your diagnosis and treatment, manage medication
side effects, effectively care for yourself,
and prevent medical problems. Also, they act
as case managers, helping you navigate the various
services here at MGH as well as beyond.
Social Worker
A social worker provides support for the many
issues that may affect you and your family during
your illness and recovery. The social workers
have specialized knowledge and experience in
the emotional and social aspects involved in
your care. Counseling is available as well as
assistance with problem solving and linkage to
hospital and community resources. You may wish
to join one of the several support groups they
offer.
Clinical Research Nurse / Clinical Research
Coordinator
New medical treatments for HIV disease are introduced
through clinical trials. Clinical trials are
detailed research studies that determine a treatment’s
safety and effectiveness. If your physician recommends
that you are eligible to participate in a clinical
trial, you may be introduced to a research nurse
and/or a clinical research coordinator for further
discussion. These individuals will join your
health care team to coordinate and manage your
care if you elect to participate in a research
trial.
Support Staff
There are many other individuals who help support
you and your treatment team. Some of these individuals
include medical assistants, receptionists and secretaries.
The support staff is a collaborative team dedicated
to ensuring that you receive the best care possible.
Websites for HIV
Information
www.mgh.harvard.edu/depts/id/patientinfo.html
www.mgh.harvard.edu/depts/AIDS/
www.massgeneral.org/pflc/
Hivinsite.ucsf.edu
(note no “www” prefix)
www.thebody.com
www.hivatis.com
www.cdc.gov
www.anacet.org
HIV/AIDS Treatment Information Service –
1 (800) HIV-0440. English and Spanish
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