Hospitalization and HIV

Make sure your medical providers know about your diagnosis.

Sometimes people worry they'll be treated differently if they share their diagnosis.  This should never happen.  If it does, let a hospital supervisor know.

You deserve to feel safe and cared for.

Some hospitals don't have all the medications for HIV treatment.  It's important not to have a gap in your care.  

If the hospital doesn't have your medication:

• Ask your nurse if you can use your medications from home.  
• Have a family member or friend bring your pill bottles to the hospital.

If the hospital pills look different from your usual medication, it's OK to ask!  This can happen when:

• You take a combined pill at home, but the hospital uses 2 separate pills for that treatment.
• Your liver or kidney function changes, and your medication needs to be adjusted.
• A medication you're getting in the hospital interacts with your usual medication, so the dose needs to be adjusted