We strive to organize all patient care in a team approach that is comprehensive, accessible and personalized. You may receive care from any number of Infectious Diseases specialists, including doctors, physicians' assistants, nurses, social workers, administrators, and other health care professionals.
Although there may be many individuals on your care team, be assured that they communicate regularly with each other in order to provide you with coordinated care. You will be given business cards with the names and contact information for your team at your visit.
Physicians
You will be cared for by physicians who have received specialized training in the field of Infectious Diseases. Since Brigham and Women's is a teaching hospital affiliated with the Harvard Medical School, doctors receiving advanced subspecialty medical training, such as medical school students, residents and fellows, may also work with your physician. The Transplant and Oncology teams received additional support from two physicians' assistants and a fellow.
Registered and Licensed Nurses
Our nursing staff is adept at caring for patients with Infectious Diseases. Your nurse will work closely with all members of your team in order to help you to understand your diagnosis and treatment, manage medication side effects, effectively care for yourself, and prevent future medical problems.
Social Workers
Our division has two social workers that provide support for any issues that may affect you and your family during your illness and recovery. The social workers have specialized knowledge and experience with emotional and social factors related to your care. They provide counseling services, assistance with problem solving, and linkage to hospital and community resources. The division also offers several support groups.
Clinical Research Nurses / Research Coordinators
New medical treatments for HIV/AIDS and related problems are developed through clinical trials. Clinical trials are an important way to determine the safety and effectiveness of treatment methods. If you wish to take part in a clinical trial or your care team recommends taking part in a study, a member of the research team will go over the details of the study with you. These individuals will join your health care team to coordinate and manage your care. Some studies provide compensation for your time and effort.
The Clinical Trials Team also includes nurse practitioners (NP). An NP is a registered nurse who is certified to practice in an advanced role. Our NPs receive training in medicine and Infectious Diseases. You may see a nurse practitioner for clinical trial-related visits, diagnosis and care of treatment-related problems, education, symptom management, and counseling.
Click here to see current research trials.
For a list of all Mass General Brigham clinical trials, click here.
Support Staff
There are many other individuals who help support you and your treatment team including receptionists and administrative assistants. The support staff is a collaborative team dedicated to ensuring that you receive the best care possible.
