Assessment of needs of adult symptomatic HIV patients in Hong Kong

A cross-sectional survey was designed to assess the physical, psychosocial, health behaviour and informational needs of symptomatic HIV patients in Ho ng Kong, using both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. F orty-six consenting adults from an outpatient clinic of a hospital in Hong Kong participated in the study. Results showed that up to 67.3% of the samp le had partially or completely unmet needs in one or more areas of function ing. Major needs were related to income, social networking, family processe s, money management and financial assistance. Only half the sample was sati sfied with the information received related to their HIV infection and its management. Unsafe sexual practices were common, as well as smoking. Meetin g these needs through policy making or practice could contribute to the enh ancement of the quality of care and support provided to people living with HIV/AIDS in Hong Kong.