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Information about all aspects of finances affected by a serious health condition. Includes income sources such as work, investments, and private and government disability programs, and expenses such as medical bills, and how to deal with financial problems.
Information about all aspects of health care from choosing a doctor and treatment, staying safe in a hospital, to end of life care. Includes how to obtain, choose and maximize health insurance policies.
Answers to your practical questions such as how to travel safely despite your health condition, how to avoid getting infected by a pet, and what to say or not say to an insurance company.

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Living With HIV

Once you choose a treatment, follow the prescribed regimen. Learn to be wise about purchasing, living with, storing and disposing of drugs. Free drugs may be available.

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Before agreeing to take any drug, consider the pros and cons, as well as the alternatives. Keep in mind that all drugs have risks.  The longer a drug has been on the market, the more that is known about its effect (both good and bad).

Even if you have health insurance, it is in your interest to purchase drugs for the least price. Also consider other factors such as convenience and what happens if you need an emergency supply.

Drugs which are prescribed for purposes other than those which have been approved by the FDA are known as being used for "off label" use. If an insurer refuses to pay, appeal with your doctor's help.

Take each drug as directed, when you are supposed to, and for as long as you are supposed to. To repeat: Keep to your agreed regimen every day.

You can keep track of your lab test results on a tool at AidsMeds.com. See:http://cllsociety.org/toolbox/keeping-track-of-lab-results/  offsite link

If it becomes difficult to take a pill, there are tips to make it easier. For example, if you have trouble swallowing, take the pill with a carbonated drink.

Sometimes taking a pill can remind you of your HIV status. If you don't want to be reminded of your status, you may not take a pill. It may help to think of every pill you take as an affirmation of your desire to be healthy and to live.

Find out what to do if you miss a dose.

If you travel across time zones, ask your doctor what to do about when to take your medications.

Let your doctor know if you miss doses.

Don't take time off your drugs (known as a "drug holiday") without first consulting with your doctor.

For drugs that you take on a long term basis, talk to your doctor about finding out if a lesser dose will accomplish the purpose.

Learn how to safely store drugs, and to dispose of unused drugs.

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