Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Walking into an appointment with a list of questions can help you feel more in control and make sure you leave with the information you actually need. Here are some good ones to consider, organized by topic. You don't need to ask all of them. Pick what matters most to you right now.

About Your Diagnosis and Health

• What is my current CD4 count and viral load, and what do they mean for me?

• How long have I likely had HIV?

• Are there other tests I should have, like screenings for other infections?

• How often will I need follow-up appointments and lab work?

About Treatment

• When should I start treatment, and why?

• What factors will affect which medication regimen you recommend for me?

• How many pills will I take, and how often?

• What happens if this first regimen doesn't work well for me. Can we switch?

• How soon can I expect my viral load to become undetectable?

About Side Effects

• What side effects are common with the medications you're recommending?

• Which side effects should I report right away versus just monitor?

• Are there foods, supplements, or other medications I should avoid?

About Daily Life

• Can I still drink alcohol, and if so, how much is safe?

• Do I need to change my diet or exercise habits?

• Are there vaccines I should get now that I have HIV?

• How does HIV affect pregnancy planning, if that's relevant to me?

About Transmission and Relationships

• Once I'm on treatment, when will I reach an undetectable viral load?

• What does undetectable = untransmittable (U=U) mean for my sex life and relationships?

• What precautions, if any, should I take in the meantime?

About Support and Resources

• Is there a case manager or social worker who can help me with insurance or other logistics?

• Are there local support groups or peer mentors for people with HIV?

• Who do I contact if I have questions between appointments?

A Tip for the Visit

Consider writing your top three questions at the top of your list. Appointments can move quickly, and it's easy to run out of time. If you don't get to everything, ask if you can follow up by phone, patient portal message, or at your next visit.

Key Takeaways

• A written list helps you make the most of limited appointment time.

• Good questions cover your health status, treatment plan, side effects, daily life, and relationships.

• Prioritize your top few questions in case time is short.

• Don't hesitate to ask your care team how to reach them with questions between visits.