Long-term continuum of care for people living with HIV/AIDS

The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), has created new options for those infected and affected by human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). Most HIV-infected persons no longer die within months of diagnosis. There is now a long-term continuum of care that can end in misery or relative comfort. The introduction of palliative care in concert with curative therapies throughout the disease trajectory should be the standard of care for all persons. At the very least, the introduction of palliative care and hospice at the end of life is important to the holistic care of persons living with HIV/AIDS.