At SCC, our medical program offers patients an opportunity to receive outstanding HIV-specialty and primary care. The patient is the most vital member of the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT). An individualized treatment plan is developed with the patient and tailored to his or her lifestyle and needs.
- The doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant is responsible for designing a treatment plan with the patient. SCC's medical providers are HIV specialists who also emphasize the importance of primary health care. When a patient is considering beginning HIV therapy, the provider will discuss the goals of treatment with them, explaining the importance of adherence to medication and acknowledging the possible challenges of this. The provider will discuss potential side effects and will enlist the patient as a partner in the treatment plan.
- The nurse is responsible for supporting the patient through education and helping them address specific needs related to his/her primary health care and HIV specialty care. Nurses at SCC are considered HIV specialty nurses, and are able to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by our patients.
- The patient at SCC is responsible for participating in his or her care by communicating with members of the medical staff about his/her beliefs, needs, and concerns. Treatment plans are developed with an emphasis on wellness and prevention, with the patient being the key to that process.