Dr. Frascino,

I am sorry for posting this question to this forum, but I couldn't think of anyone else to ask or whose opinion I respect more. I was diagnosed HIV+ after an exposure on July 22nd 2007. In getting a hold of my diagnosis and the situation surrounding it, I have done extensive research on HIV treatment and this research has really changed something in the heart of who I am. I've always had an interest in medicine but financial constraints had previously made it hard to pursue medicine as a career. I am now considering changing my career (I am a computer programmer) and going back to school to become an Infectious Disease specialist. I know this is a long and hard academic undertaking but I feel as though its something I should have done a long time ago. My question is this: am I being unrealistic to consider what could amount to eight more years of post baccalaureate work to be a doctor when I have an HIV infection? Ive spoken about this to my family and they feel I should not follow this dream and that it is a futile effort with a chronic disease. Is it reasonable to expect that I will be able to become an HIV specialist starting from the point where I am now ? I am inspired by your work and value your opinion highly.

Thank you for everything.

Hello,

Becoming a physician is not easy, but being able to help people in their time of need is indeed a rare privilege that is worth the effort. I do not believe HIV should prevent anyone from following and fulfilling their dreams, including future doctors! The primary thing to consider, if you are considering quitting your job and going to medical school, is that you need to have ongoing health insurance coverage that you can rely on, even if you decide down the road that you'd rather be a space cowboy, rock star or President Hillary Clinton's next pick for a Supreme Court judge. (Of course if Hillary or any of the top three Democratic contenders does become president, we may finally have universal health care coverage, in which case you won't have to worry!)

So, do you have to give up your dream because you are HIV positive? No. I should point out there are many HIV/AIDS-related careers in medicine that you could pursue, even if you decide, for whatever reason, that getting an MD is not the right course for you. However, should you decide to become an HIV specialist, I, for one, would be delighted to have you as a professional colleague. Just remember to keep your options open and your health insurance in place as you follow your dream.

Good luck.

Dr. Bob