HIV/AIDS

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, called AIDS, is the advanced stage of infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, which over time destroys the immune system.

People with AIDS have difficulty fighting infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites and often die from opportunistic infections, rather than from AIDS itself.

UCSF Medical Center offers one of the most comprehensive AIDS treatment programs in the country and is a leader in AIDS research through its clinic called 360: The Positive Care Center at UCSF. The name reflects the degrees in a circle — the full circle of care — to highlight its comprehensive services for those living with HIV and AIDS.

Today, our staff is helping patients live healthier, longer lives with new medications and combinations of drugs. The center's goals include providing the best patient care and support and addressing issues such as HIV and aging as well as disparities in care among African Americans.

Services at the Positive Care Center include patient education about the disease, primary care, including extensive diagnostic tests, and consultations to community doctors as well as:

• Body mass assessment and nutritional counseling
• Counseling to prevent transmission of HIV
• Laboratory and radiology services
• Medication services
• Outpatient surgical services
• Pain management
• Physical therapy
• Sleep management
• Smoking cessation
• Social services
• Support groups

Specialized services are available to women and children with HIV and AIDS through our UCSF Women's HIV Program and to minority men in our Men of Color Program. Patients who develop AIDS-related cancer are referred to specialists at the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. In addition, our patients have the opportunity to participate in research studies that involve the most advanced treatments.

For information or to make an appointment, please call:
360: The Positive Care Center at UCSF (415) 353-2119

See more information about getting care at the center including billing, lab test results and other services..

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated November 19, 2007