Choosing the right provider. The idea that you have a choice in your HIV care provider might sound novel, but it’s the truth. Your doctor should be someone who makes you feel comfortable—you’re going to have to be completely candid and honest with them. Just as you would evaluate any person in your life who provides a service, such as a mechanic or hairstylist, it’s important to think about what a successful relationship with a medical provider looks like and decide whether the person you’re seeing is a part of your life with HIV. Some questions you may want to ask yourself are whether this doctor has a bedside manner you vibe with and whether they use language that affirms your identity.

Do some independent research. Conversations with your health care provider should be candid, but they’re also best when both people in the conversation are as informed as possible. Getting to know HIV medication better doesn’t mean being a science expert. POZ.com has a section dedicated to starting HIV treatment as well as a drug chart you can use to familiarize yourself with each type of medication, which includes information such as dosages and how the meds are taken, as well as other things you’ll want to know, like potential side effects. Walking into an appointment with this knowledge will make for a smoother meeting all around.

Ask yourself some important questions. Do you prefer to take your medication in the morning or at night? What side effects are you comfortable with? Do you regularly eat breakfast, and would you be willing to take your medication with food? Do you even like taking pills? These are just a few of the many questions you should be asking yourself before choosing a regimen. HIV treatment must fit into your life, not the other way around! Having an honest conversation with yourself should precede any conversation with your medical provider.

Initiate a follow-up conversation. Yes, your doctor should be checking in with you about your medication, but you can also take some initiative by letting your doctor know when you’re anything less than happy with your treatment. Every time you encounter your provider, make sure to tell them whether you feel you’re tolerating your medication well or whether you’re having unintended side effects. Remember that a successful treatment regimen will do more than get you to an undetectable viral load—that’s why there are so many different types of treatment.

Get the support you need. Living successfully with HIV has everything to do with establishing a network of people who can help. Your doctor is just one part of that network. Family, friends and other people living with HIV are all a part of that support as well. If you’re not sure who can help you, check out the POZ Forums. Your best support could be someone you don’t even know yet!