Health care

Some of the best HIV care in the world is available from NHS healthcare workers who are dedicated to ensuring that people with HIV receive the best possible treatment and care, regardless of their background.

Many people are attracted to working in HIV because they are from, or care about, the communities most affect by HIV.

What’s more, healthcare professionals work to codes of ethics to make sure that any personal prejudices that they might have don’t affect patient care.

Rules about confidentiality and the Disability Discrimination Act also provide important protections.

But there are occasions when healthcare workers don’t live up to these very high standards. Sometimes it might just be a simple mistake or misunderstanding, but at times it is down to a lack of understanding or prejudice.

Whatever the reason, it’s unacceptable and you can challenge it. But if you’re ill, or need treatment and care, the last thing you may want to do is complain.

If you do complain, the support of family, friends and loved ones can help. HIV organisations can also help. It may also be the case that talking to someone about your experience is helpful.

HIV clinics, hospitals and GPs should all have complaint procedures. The care you receive should not be affected because you are making a complaint.

There are also professional organisations that you can complain to about doctors or dentists.