HIV
The ByWard Family Health Team (BWFHT) provides comprehensive HIV care based on Clinical Practice Guidelines developed by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). New pharmacotherapeutic agents, enhanced clinical outcomes and increased long-term survival has led to an emerging incidence of health problems common to an aging population (e.g. cardiovascular diseases). This trend necessitates a shift in the focus of care to a chronic disease management model which mirrors other common chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic obstructive respiratory disease and cardiovascular diseases.
The program focuses on reducing HIV-associated morbidity and prolonging the duration and quality of survival: restoring and preserving immunologic function; maximally and durably suppressing plasma HIV viral load; and preventing HIV transmission. The program aims to increase the number of patients who meet the recommended guidelines for adequate disease control and reduce the incidence of complications. Finally, the program looks to increase patient knowledge and strategies to allow them to live their best life with their chronic illness.
What to Expect
- Comprehensive initial assessment
- Regular meetings with the HIV Nurse Practitioner for ongoing care and support
- Review of recent lab tests including viral load and CD4
- Adjustment of medication as needed
- Assessment of your risk for heart attack, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, renal function and sexual health
- Advice and discussion about exercise, food choice, smoking, etc.
How to Prepare
- Have laboratory tests done before your visit
- Bring a list of all medications you are taking including non-prescription drugs. Let the team know which ones need to be refilled.
- Write down any questions you have about your HIV.
- Save any non-urgent, non-HIV questions for visits with your family physician
How to Access
If you have rostered with a physician at the BWFHT you can join the HIV Program and have free access to the service. Call 613-564-3950 for more information or to book an appointment. All patients rostered to the BWFHT have access to our allied health professionals.
NB: BWFHT also accepts outside patients for consultation with one of our 2 HIV specialists: Dr. Hughes Loemba, and Dr. Brodie Ramin. Physicians can refer a patient via fax at 613-564-6627.
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