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AIDS in primary care: a report from the Ambulatory Sentinel Practice Network
B N Calonge1, R S Miller, L K Dennis
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver.
The Journal of Family Practice
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) prevalence in primary care is similar to national estimates. Primary care physicians must prepare for a significant role in managing the AIDS epidemic.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- The incidence and prevalence of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in primary care settings remain largely uncharacterized.
- Understanding the impact of AIDS on primary care practices is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of AIDS cases within primary care practices.
- To assess the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the Ambulatory Sentinel Practice Network (ASPN).
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among clinicians in the Ambulatory Sentinel Practice Network (ASPN), a primary care research network.
- Clinicians reported the number and characteristics of AIDS patients seen between January 1982 and December 1987.
- Data were compared with national AIDS incidence and prevalence rates.
Main Results:
- Thirty-nine prevalent cases of AIDS were reported in ASPN practices from 1982 to 1987.
- The majority of patients (79%) were males aged 15-44; all had known risk factors for AIDS.
- Reported cases aligned with projections based on national 1986 rates.
Conclusions:
- AIDS prevalence in ASPN primary care practices is comparable to national estimates, potentially higher.
- Primary care physicians require preparedness to manage a substantial role in addressing the AIDS epidemic.