Complementary therapists or practitioners are people trained to use forms of treatment that are different from conventional medical care. Only a few complementary therapists see large numbers of people living with HIV/AIDS. Outside of big cities, it may be difficult to find such a therapist. You may already have some idea of how a particular complementary therapy works, but it’s useful to consult with the therapist about his or her philosophy and practice.

 As with doctors, shop around.The following questions may help you choose a therapist:What is the treatment being offered, and how can it benefit you? What is the therapist’s experience in treating people living with HIV/AIDS? What experience and training does he or she have in diagnosing HIV/AIDS-related illnesses? What qualifications does he or she have? How can the treatment be combined with conventional medicine? How much does he or she charge? Does he or she charge on a “sliding scale” (offer a reduced rate if you can’t afford his or her regular fees)? Are other costs involved? (Some private insurance policies cover a percentage of the costs of some complementary therapies.) Is he or she prepared to visit you at home or in the hospital if necessary?

 

 

Any claim that a treatment can cure AIDS or an AIDS-related infection completely, or change your HIV status from positive to negative, should make you cautious. If you’re not sure about a particular therapy or therapist, try to contact someone who has had that therapy or been treated by that therapist.

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