I am a male senior living with HIV and my current physician has closed his office to devote his time to HIV research. I would like to find a doctor who specifically deals with gay patients, preferably who is a gay doctor. It is very important to me that this doctor not only is knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS in older adults, but also understands LGBT aging issues. What resources are there that can help me find a qualified physician? Can you help me?

Hello there, I can easily understand your concern as I, too, am a senior living with HIV since 1987. First of all, have you had this discussion with your physician. If he is closing his practice to do research on HIV, then he must have access to a network of physicians, patients and researchers who could possibly help you with your question. Have you talked this over with your friends? This is another way to access an already existing network. Since you do not indicate where you live, I cannot refer you to a local community center or service organization. You could call the NYC LGBT Community Services Center (212 620-7310) as they have the guide to lgbt centers in the USA. Ask them for the one closest to you. You can call SAGE (212 741 2247) and see if there is a local SAGE near you. And l would also suggest your calling the AIDS organizations in your area to see what kind of lists they have. Are there any local lgbt directories that list activities and organizations? Some senior centers are very sophisticated about HIV and may have their own referral lists. You can also call your city Department of Aging and ask your question. You do have some work cut out for you!

No matter how you find this physician, the most important point to remember is that this a person with whom you are going to have a working relationship. In my experience, it is essential to have a physician with whom you can have a dialogue regardless of his/her qualifications. I see the physician/patient relationshiip as a mutual partnership where it is essential that you are an active participant. Though I live in NYC which has a plethora of physicians who are HIV knowledgeable, it was through a personal network that I found my physican. Interestingly enough, she uses a pharmacist as her consultant on HIV issues and he was someone that I had worked with in the past. Please do not discount what you can bring to this relationship and teach your physican. I say this as you may not find someone who is both HIV and LGBT senior savvy but the relationship with you may complete his/her education. In conclusion, I suggest that you tell me where you live so I can be more specific in my answer. Good luck. Harold