Getting the tests in the UK

Many hospitals routinely use all these tests when they are recommended in UK treatment guidelines, but you may have to be persistent to get them.

All these tests are important in different situations. Ask your doctor, write to your clinic and don’t accept no for an answer.

Sometimes, if you don’t ask, you won’t get. Patient demand can have an effect.

Write to your consultant, clinic and laboratory heads, Primary Care Trust (PCT) executives and your MP if you are not receiving the care recommended in the BHIVA guidelines.

If it really is not going to happen, then make sure the hospital at least stores a sample of blood for analysis later. This is particularly important for resistance tests.

Have blood taken while you are still taking your failing combination and keep a note of the date.

The i-Base phoneline may be able to help advocate in these situations.