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HIV services

Finding out you have HIV can be a life changing experience. If you have been recently diagnosed it may be a difficult time. However it is worth knowing that with effective treatments, the majority of people diagnosed with HIV in the UK now have a very good prognosis and normal life expectancy.

Who are we?

We are a dedicated team of HIV consultants, Doctors, Nurse Specialists, Health Advisers, Support Workers and a pharmacist who together strive to provide you with an excellent care and psychological support. We are a confidential, non-judgemental service who put patient care first. We also liaise with other agencies to ensure you are supported with your diagnosis.

What services do we offer?

There are five HIV services within The Northern Contraception, Sexual Health and HIV Service which are at the following locations

• The Hathersage Centre

• Withington Clinic

• Choices Centre, Stockport

• The Orange rooms, Ashton

• North Manchester Clinic

Patients are registered under one of these services and if patients wish to transfer care we ask them to discuss this with their current clinic. At present people cannot be seen for HIV care at more than one site.

We offer a variety of different appointments depending on your care needs.

We also offer annual smear tests and support during pregnancy for women living with HIV.

Joint Specialist Clinics

We also provide joint specialist clinics with other medical colleagues for patients with multiple healthcare needs.

Contraception & Sexual Health Services

We generally encourage a sexual health screen when you attend for your bloods appointment but you can also access our Integrated sexual health services outside of this if you require screening more often, or you have symptoms. For further details please see Our Clinics

HIV Medications

Adherence is crucial with HIV medications and it is really important that you do not have any interruptions in your treatment and have bloods done when required. Repeat prescriptions are arranged at your doctor/ clinical nurse specialist appointment, it is important you do not miss this as there may be a risk of you running out of your medication. Please let us know if you are running out of medication by calling your HIV centre, please do not leave this until you only have a couple of days left.

Are there any opportunities for me to be involved in research?

We have a number of research trials if you are interested and eligible for any trials then your clinician will discuss this with you and refer to the relevant centre. These may include trials with newer, better HIV drugs as well as other strategies which could improve your care. If you are eligible to participate in a trial, this may be discussed with you during the consultation or over the phone, if you have given us permission to call you. Feel free to discuss research with your doctor or nurse at any time.

What do I do if I cant make or need to change an appointment?

If you need to change an appointment please call the clinic where you have your care. Please bear in mind most appointments are normally booked a few weeks in advance.

The Hathersage – Central Manchester 0161 276 5221 - Specialist Nurse Office Email chat.cns@cmft.nhs.uk

Withington Clinic – South Manchester 0161 217 4939- Specialist Nurse Office 0161 217 3180

North Manchester Clinic – 0161 918 4263

Orange Rooms – Tameside 0161 342 7101

Choices Centre – Stockport – 0161 204 5888