ABSTRACT
With the increased life expectancy for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) has come chronic HIV-related impairments, many of which can be successfully treated by physical therapy (PT). The purpose of this study is to determine common HIV-related impairments that merit PT, HIV providers' PT referral patterns and patients' barriers to care. 57 surveys were distributed to HIV providers in Atlanta, Georgia. Results showed that providers typically referred to PT for musculoskeletal conditions, neurological conditions and pain control. Financial issues and lack of insurance were the most common barriers to PT care. This study concluded that there is a need for PT services amongst PLWHA and that financial limitations are a significant treatment barrier for PLWHA.
