Treataware, a suite of major NAPWA/ATPA treatments intitatives, will be launched in May 2008. The Treataware project aims to provide people living with HIV/AIDS, their carers and health care and service providers, with information about HIV treatment, treatment access and research. Inspiring people living with HIV/AIDS to make informed choices and take effective action for their health maintenance.
A trio of projects will be launched in May under the Treataware banner:
1. Treataware information line (HIV treatments and research information)
This is a national 1800 toll-free service. Callers will be able to discuss HIV treatments and related topics with trained HIV treatment educators. The info line will act primarily as a contact and referral system and will enhance, not replace medical advice.
2. HIV Clinical Trials Database
An internet-based resource for people living with HIV, their partners, carers and allied service providers. The clinical trials database is a publicly-accessible register of Australian HIV clinical trials. NAPWA will provide clinical, technical and medical information in a user-friendly format. This database is not intended to 'enlist' people into trials, but will act as a centralised source of independent information.
3. HIV Treatments Checklist (printed booklet)
This guide has been prepared to assist HIV positive people to make the best decisions they can about their health, care and treatment. It will provide a checklist of treatment issues and decisions for positive people to work through with their doctor and other health and support providers. Through using this guide, we hope that people living with HIV will not only be better informed about HIV and general health needs, but most importantly they will have worked in partnership with their health providers to produce a clear, comprehensive plan for living well with HIV/AIDS. Clinical information provided by Treataware is not meant to replace the advice which would be provided by a doctor or other health care worker. People living with HIV should regularly see their doctor, who can provide monitoring, up-to-date information, advice and counseling if needed.