Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although general practitioners (GPs) play a central role in responding to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Australia, the social history of their contribution in the early years has remained largely untold.
METHODS: In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 GPs who provided HIV care between 1982 and 1996. De-identified transcripts were broadly coded in NVivo, then analysed for themes regarding GP experiences during the early years.
RESULTS: Participants recalled a time of death, fear and prejudice, with large numbers of patients diagnosed with and dying from a highly stigmatised disease. An enduring emotional legacy resulted, with GPs developing survival strategies such as better managing relationships with patients, seeking mental health support and reducing working hours.
DISCUSSION: These GPs represent the first generation of GPs in Australia caring for people with HIV. Understanding their experiences can inform and inspire the next generation, who inherit a much brighter future for HIV care.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 734-8 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Australian Family Physician |
| Volume | 42 |
| Issue number | 10 |
| Publication status | Published - 2013 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Australia
- Female
- General Practice
- General Practitioners
- History, 20th Century
- Humans
- Interviews as Topic
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Historical Article
- Journal Article
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't