A vote for common sense – Smile On-News

In recent times there has been a growing body of evidence to show that the anti-retroviral medications can control HIV so effectively that patients with HIV display levels of the infective particle in their blood that are too low even to measure.

Combine this knowledge with the tight infection control levels in place especially in dental practice and it is extremely difficult to say any restrictions on HIV+ healthcare professionals being allowed to practise is anything other than discriminatory.

According to a report in yesterday’s Independent newspaper, the Department of Health is reportedly ready to launch a consultation before the end of the year to canvas opinion from healthcare professionals and patients, pending a decision in 2012.

Of course, this is an emotive subject and the DH is thought to be understandably concerned about public opinion. The fear and ignorance that pervades around the subject of HIV is such that any wrong step by the Department could give rise to a public backlash that could scupper any move to lift the working restrictions.

However I agree with the oft-mentioned sentiment that HIV is not a notifiable disease and according to the Health Protection Agency patients are not required to tell you if they are HIV+; however, you are expected to treat all patients the same. Why can’t clinicians be afforded the same courtesy?