Technology may help bring convenience to HIV care

Video conferencing technology may help to improve the quality and convenience of care by providing numerous resources and allowing for time-efficient doctor-patient meetings between health professionals and HIV-infected individuals, according to a recent study that was published in the journal PLoS One.

A group of Spanish researchers created a five-year telemedicine program called Hospital VIHrtual for HIV patients in stable condition.

The investigators said that although the system does not replace the necessity for in-hospital care, the virtual method yielded the same benefits as traditional treatment practices.

The study's 200 participants were able to receive care wherever they could access the internet, which helped them save money on travel costs. It also reduced the duration of checkups from 20 minutes when performed in-office to 10 minutes online.

HIV-positive individuals who partake in the program have access to professional informational resources and blogs where they can share their feelings and experiences with other patients who are in the same situation.

Early diagnosis of HIV may improve a person's chance of avoiding AIDS and maintaining a normal quality of life.

Anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the virus may consider using online testing services to determine their HIV status.