HIV healthcare provider-patient interaction: Observations on the process of providing antiretroviral treatment

The meeting during which healthcare providers and newly infected HIV+ patie nts discuss treatment options is a critical stage in patients' care. We des cribe 10 interactions between healthcare providers and HIV+ patients at two clinics. Two observers coded each of the 10 interactions for the content o f the topics discussed and for communication-relevant behaviors. The intera ctions followed one of two general patterns, according to whether combinati on antiretroviral treatment was recommended or deferred. Features of the in teractions are described. These features include: (1) the presentation of a single-treatment option, (2) a discussion of whether patients have the wil l to begin therapy and the skills to adhere to treatment regimens, and (3) organizational pressures to include patients in clinical trials.