Do the Guidelines enable any physician to determine treatment for HIV-infected people?
The recommendations in the Guidelines are not intended to substitute for the judgment of a physician who is expert in the care of HIV-infected individuals. The Panel underscored that, when possible, the treatment of patients should be directed by a physician with extensive experience in the care of HIV-infected people. When this is not possible, the physician should have access to such expertise through consultations. What role should the patient play in considering the Guidelines? The Panel emphasized the necessity of an informed and close partnership between patient and clinician with ongoing patient counseling and education. The multidrug regimens are complicated and require close monitoring by the physician and a strong commitment on the part of the patient. Do the Guidelines contain recommendations for treatment of pediatric HIV infection? No. The Panel decided that the issues regarding pediatric HIV infection and treatment are extensive and should be addressed in a separate docum
