The treatment advocate helps clients and patients understand the complexities of HIV treatment, and helps guide them in working with their doctor. Two agencies working together received the contract for this program. I was hired later, and helped edit the curriculum, when the classes were about to begin. We teach the classes together. Our program is peer led and run, which breaks down barriers that can come with training led by doctors or professors.
People are less afraid to interact and ask questions.
We cover HIV pathogenesis, standard of care, antiretroviral strategies, side effects and drug interactions, opportunistic infections, research, clinical trials, adherence issues, access to care, benefits, referral and resource information, and strategies for working with multiply diagnosed and underserved clients. Participants receive a treatment education manual. Topics have included hepatitis C, post-exposure prophylaxis, nutrition and drug therapy, and transgender issues including hormones and HIV antiretroviral treatment. Upcoming topics include domestic violence, cultural competency for HIV service providers, and immune-based therapies. 3-hour updates on the latest treatment news.