HIV treatment, care and support in NSW: a work necessarily still in progress.

Abstract

A diverse range of services were developed in NSW in response to the emerging HIV epidemic. These services included innovative multidisciplinary service models of care most of which have been durable. Allied health teams and ancillary services funded by non-government organisations have played a vital role in delivering care and support in the community. A consistency of approach to treatment across the health sector has been reinforced through continuing education activities and credentialing of antiretroviral-drug prescribers. This investment in care and treatment has resulted in reduced hospital bed use. High levels of treatment uptake over many years are likely to have a favourable impact on transmission rates thus contributing to the stability of the epidemic in NSW.