[Hiv Support Group] Living A Life Being Hiv+ & Living With Someone Who Is Hiv+ (Compiled)

[wintersnow]

No, but in JB

oh no must be those ATM, HT Spa, JR one of them right.

 

they keep pointing fingers at each other in the jb massage thread

[mx67]

People have their freedom of speech. I can't stop people for saying such inconsiderate remark.

[wintersnow]

well i guess you should point out, at least the palour maybe not the person since it would be too direct so other people visiting them would be more careful

[Guest PozD]

Is there any difference in active ingredients between twice a day and newer once a day meds?  If OK happy with twice routine, should try new one, and can go back to old one?

And there is one more thing. Before you start your medications, you have to undergo the resistance test. Today, people get infected in about 10% of cases with HIV viruses that are already resistant against some of the meds. Even if this costs extra money, such test must be done. Otherwise, you may loose your time (and money) by taking medications that are not actually working for you.

[Magicerife]

please do not start your own cocktail therapy without subjected to prior screening, blood tests, allele and resistance testing. you may wish to read up on IRIS (immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome) if you think it is as simple as just popping in pills once you've decided

[jason212]

People have their freedom of speech. I can't stop people for saying such inconsiderate remark.

 

mx67, please don't be bothered about such remarks.

 

I'm was diagnosed in Jun 2015. Like many others, who are not comfortable or unsure how being in the public system of treatment will affect us, have decided to seek treatment in bangkok. A few guys, including myself goes to bumrangard hospital in bangkok. It is very easy to seek treatment there and they are very efficient too. Ben is one of the guys that goes there for treatment and he had posted his experience on pozboysg's tumblr. Please take a look. http://pozboysg.tumblr.com/post/36344282081/bens-letter-seeking-hiv-treatment-in-bangkok 

 

Do note his experience was based on a few years ago but still very relevant. The most obvious difference is the cost, It has gone up. I'm thinking of sharing my experience as an update to his.

 

Most of the guys here are very helpful. They were of great help to me especially when I have not told any of my friends. Just give a shout out. There are always people willing to help. 

Edited August 11, 2015 by jason212

[Guest wozzit]

A few guys, including myself goes to bumrangard hospital in bangkok. It is very easy to seek treatment there and they are very efficient too

Bumrungrad is a world class hospital - as are many in Bangkok. But do please note it is probably the most expensive. I cannot speak for HIV meds, but for other treatments hospitals like the Bangkok Christian Hospital on Silom n the St. Louis Hospital on the bottom half of Sathorn are quite a bit cheaper. It might be useful to call a few hospitals - theyll all have English speaking staff - before making a visit to find out their treatment costs.

[mx67]

mx67, please don't be bothered about such remarks.

 

I'm was diagnosed in Jun 2015. Like many others, who are not comfortable or unsure how being in the public system of treatment will affect us, have decided to seek treatment in bangkok. A few guys, including myself goes to bumrangard hospital in bangkok. It is very easy to seek treatment there and they are very efficient too. Ben is one of the guys that goes there for treatment and he had posted his experience on pozboysg's tumblr. Please take a look. http://pozboysg.tumblr.com/post/36344282081/bens-letter-seeking-hiv-treatment-in-bangkok 

 

Do note his experience was based on a few years ago but still very relevant. The most obvious different is the cost of treatment has gone up. I'm thinking of sharing mine experience as an update to his.

 

Most of the guys here are very helpful. They were of great help to me especially I have not tell any friends at the moment. Just give a shout out. There are always people willing to help. 

Many thanks for the information, I will check it out. How often do you go Bangkok for treatment?

[Walking Dead]

Many thanks for the information, I will check it out. How often do you go Bangkok for treatment?

 

Hi mx67.

 

My 2 cents based on my understanding of how SG system works. I get treated in BKK so the information on how CDC works is based on what I gather from people.

 

1) what's now, what to do next?

Find out the Pros and Cons for treatment locally and overseas to decide on how you would want to start treatment. Also, determine if cost is a concern, and whether you are able to go overseas frequently during the first year to seek treatment overseas. All these factors may contribute to your decision-making process.

 

2) go polyclinic see doc so can get subsidy from CDC, will my family or company know?

CDC will notify MOH. If you are married, your wife will be notified. It is supposed to be mandatory in order to protect your spouse and alert her to check if she has been infected (based on what I understand). Other than your wife, no other people will be notified. Your company will not be told unless you are working in the healthcare sector.

 

3) go BBK for treatment how to go about?

Wozzit, Lostintranslation and Jason212 have shared some of the hospitals that many locals go to for treatment. You can make enquiries regarding the pricing and how fast they are able to perform all the necessary tests. This would help to cut down the number of days that you need to spend in BKK. As an example, for Bumrungrad, you are able to get your test results the following day so long as your blood is drawn in the morning, so you will be able to make an appointment to see the doctor the following day as well (based on my experience). You do pay a higher premium for the high level of service though.

 

First visit, the doctor will need to do a series of lab tests to establish your baseline. Set aside sufficient days in order for your test results to be known, and for you to make an appointment with the doctor to go through the info and plan out your medical treatment. For resistance testing, it should be recommended. What it does is that it will determine the genotype of the HIV virus that you are infected with. This will help determine if the virus (there are several sub-types with different drug resistances) is resistant to any drug combination that is typically prescribed as a 'first-line' drug combination. This is to ensure that the drug combination prescribed to you will be effective in controlling your viral load. The resistance will take a few weeks for the results to be known, so you will have to arrange to make another trip down once the test results are out. The doctor will then be able to advise you on the recommended drug regime to start off with etc.

 

Once you start your medication, you will need to go down in 3 months time to do some checks on your liver as well as kidney to see if your body has any adverse reaction to the medication. There are generic body check-ups that will include the necessary parameters if you are unable to go to BKK to do the check. The parameters to take note is creatinine (kidney) and liver enzyme level (liver). Ideally you should go down again in 3 months time for a follow-up check to see if the prescribed medication is able to keep your virus under control. After that you can go down once every 6 months.

 

Hope the information may be of help. Feel free to post here if you should have further questions, or drop me a PM. Take care!

[Guest Guest]

What will happen to a HIV positive person here if he or she has totally no money or job in life? I can't even imagine. That's why I always ask my friends not to go to gay saunas because of free entry or use gay apps to find casual sex.

[wintersnow]

What will happen to a HIV positive person here if he or she has totally no money or job in life? I can't even imagine. That's why I always ask my friends not to go to gay saunas because of free entry or use gay apps to find casual sex.

ive personally seen people who dont have money in their medisave or cash to pay for the arv drugs

 

the pharmacy obviously cannot give the medication without patient paying but the patient on the other hand shouldnt stop medication else more complications such as drug resistance will come in

 

im not sure what happened in the end but some staff, i believe should be medical social worker came and the rest im not sure what happened but i supposed the patient should have gotten the medications

[jason212]

Hi mx67.

 

My 2 cents based on my understanding of how SG system works. I get treated in BKK so the information on how CDC works is based on what I gather from people.

 

1) what's now, what to do next?

Find out the Pros and Cons for treatment locally and overseas to decide on how you would want to start treatment. Also, determine if cost is a concern, and whether you are able to go overseas frequently during the first year to seek treatment overseas. All these factors may contribute to your decision-making process.

 

2) go polyclinic see doc so can get subsidy from CDC, will my family or company know?

CDC will notify MOH. If you are married, your wife will be notified. It is supposed to be mandatory in order to protect your spouse and alert her to check if she has been infected (based on what I understand). Other than your wife, no other people will be notified. Your company will not be told unless you are working in the healthcare sector.

 

3) go BBK for treatment how to go about?

Wozzit, Lostintranslation and Jason212 have shared some of the hospitals that many locals go to for treatment. You can make enquiries regarding the pricing and how fast they are able to perform all the necessary tests. This would help to cut down the number of days that you need to spend in BKK. As an example, for Bumrungrad, you are able to get your test results the following day so long as your blood is drawn in the morning, so you will be able to make an appointment to see the doctor the following day as well (based on my experience). You do pay a higher premium for the high level of service though.

 

First visit, the doctor will need to do a series of lab tests to establish your baseline. Set aside sufficient days in order for your test results to be known, and for you to make an appointment with the doctor to go through the info and plan out your medical treatment. For resistance testing, it should be recommended. What it does is that it will determine the genotype of the HIV virus that you are infected with. This will help determine if the virus (there are several sub-types with different drug resistances) is resistant to any drug combination that is typically prescribed as a 'first-line' drug combination. This is to ensure that the drug combination prescribed to you will be effective in controlling your viral load. The resistance will take a few weeks for the results to be known, so you will have to arrange to make another trip down once the test results are out. The doctor will then be able to advise you on the recommended drug regime to start off with etc.

 

Once you start your medication, you will need to go down in 3 months time to do some checks on your liver as well as kidney to see if your body has any adverse reaction to the medication. There are generic body check-ups that will include the necessary parameters if you are unable to go to BKK to do the check. The parameters to take note is creatinine (kidney) and liver enzyme level (liver). Ideally you should go down again in 3 months time for a follow-up check to see if the prescribed medication is able to keep your virus under control. After that you can go down once every 6 months.

 

Hope the information may be of help. Feel free to post here if you should have further questions, or drop me a PM. Take care!

 

Well written Walking Dead.

 

Everyone will be lost at 1st. Be strong and compose, seeking medical help asap. For me, I felt a huge relived after seeing my blood test result. The discussion I had with my Doc helps me to put many things into perspective. Everyone manages their emotion differently so try to find ways to let these emotions go so that we can start our journey and continue to live a good life.   

[azimuth]

What will happen to a HIV positive person here if he or she has totally no money or job in life? I can't even imagine. That's why I always ask my friends not to go to gay saunas because of free entry or use gay apps to find casual sex.

 

You can talk to AFA. They do provide some form of financial assistance:

 

http://afa.org.sg/whatwedo/support/coordinatedcare/financialsupportprogrammes/#toggle-id-2

[mx67]

Hi Walking Dead, really appreciate you taking time to give me the information. I will be going to Oogachaga for the counselling session recommended by the doctor. After that I will have to decide treatment locally or overseas.

 

If I decided to do treatment in BKK, will be great if I can follow someone (whom seek treatment there). Appreciate guidance as I am not familiar with BKK. If anyone don't mind, please write to me. Thanks in advance.

[wintersnow]

Hi Walking Dead, really appreciate you taking time to give me the information. I will be going to Oogachaga for the counselling session recommended by the doctor. After that I will have to decide treatment locally or overseas.

 

If I decided to do treatment in BKK, will be great if I can follow someone (whom seek treatment there). Appreciate guidance as I am not familiar with BKK. If anyone don't mind, please write to me. Thanks in advance.

great

[lostintranslation]

Hi mx67.

 

My 2 cents based on my understanding of how SG system works. I get treated in BKK so the information on how CDC works is based on what I gather from people.

 

1) what's now, what to do next?

Find out the Pros and Cons for treatment locally and overseas to decide on how you would want to start treatment. Also, determine if cost is a concern, and whether you are able to go overseas frequently during the first year to seek treatment overseas. All these factors may contribute to your decision-making process.

 

2) go polyclinic see doc so can get subsidy from CDC, will my family or company know?

CDC will notify MOH. If you are married, your wife will be notified. It is supposed to be mandatory in order to protect your spouse and alert her to check if she has been infected (based on what I understand). Other than your wife, no other people will be notified. Your company will not be told unless you are working in the healthcare sector.

 

3) go BBK for treatment how to go about?

Wozzit, Lostintranslation and Jason212 have shared some of the hospitals that many locals go to for treatment. You can make enquiries regarding the pricing and how fast they are able to perform all the necessary tests. This would help to cut down the number of days that you need to spend in BKK. As an example, for Bumrungrad, you are able to get your test results the following day so long as your blood is drawn in the morning, so you will be able to make an appointment to see the doctor the following day as well (based on my experience). You do pay a higher premium for the high level of service though.

 

First visit, the doctor will need to do a series of lab tests to establish your baseline. Set aside sufficient days in order for your test results to be known, and for you to make an appointment with the doctor to go through the info and plan out your medical treatment. For resistance testing, it should be recommended. What it does is that it will determine the genotype of the HIV virus that you are infected with. This will help determine if the virus (there are several sub-types with different drug resistances) is resistant to any drug combination that is typically prescribed as a 'first-line' drug combination. This is to ensure that the drug combination prescribed to you will be effective in controlling your viral load. The resistance will take a few weeks for the results to be known, so you will have to arrange to make another trip down once the test results are out. The doctor will then be able to advise you on the recommended drug regime to start off with etc.

 

Once you start your medication, you will need to go down in 3 months time to do some checks on your liver as well as kidney to see if your body has any adverse reaction to the medication. There are generic body check-ups that will include the necessary parameters if you are unable to go to BKK to do the check. The parameters to take note is creatinine (kidney) and liver enzyme level (liver). Ideally you should go down again in 3 months time for a follow-up check to see if the prescribed medication is able to keep your virus under control. After that you can go down once every 6 months.

 

Hope the information may be of help. Feel free to post here if you should have further questions, or drop me a PM. Take care!

  

Well written Walking Dead.

 

Everyone will be lost at 1st. Be strong and compose, seeking medical help asap. For me, I felt a huge relived after seeing my blood test result. The discussion I had with my Doc helps me to put many things into perspective. Everyone manages their emotion differently so try to find ways to let these emotions go so that we can start our journey and continue to live a good life.

Yup! That is a great "guide" to what your first step should be. These are the main factors I considered when deciding on whether to get treated here in SG or abroad:

1. It's all about the money $$:

a. Obviously getting treated overseas is gonna cost more.

b. For full local treatment, yes, meds are expensive but you will be able to use medisave. Also, social subsidy is possible, depending on your financial situation. So on hand cash could be minimal.

c. Another option is to get treated here in Singapore, but buy your meds from runners or overseas yourself. This will cost you significantly less without touching medisave. You can easily buy your meds from runners, or at Thai Red Cross yourself or through a friend/family with a prescription from your doctor here in Singapore.

Of course, do bear in mind that the initial costs are much higher because you will need to go for a lot of tests (e.g. other STDs, resistance, liver function, etc). But these should go down when your condition stablises.

2. #Hashtagged (in MOH):

Self explanatory. WalkingDead pretty much summarises what I know as well, though it's best to check with AFA and counsellors.

3. Future illnesses:

For me, this is the 2nd biggest factor to consider. I would want my doctor to be closer to me in event of emergencies but it's really up to individuals.

4. The Travel Bug:

Are you able to go BKK every 6 months moving forward? Is taking leave or going away every 6 months something feasible?

And yes, you will feel lost and alone at first but calming yourself down and deciding where to seek treatment is probably the most important thing you will need to do. Nothing felt worst for me than knowing that I have some virus attacking me but not doing anything about it. The day I took my first dose of meds, that's when I know things are gonna be alright and I stop suspecting every cough or squeeze or rash is due to it.

Reach out to the counsellors or other PLHIVs. I am sure many are willing to share their experiences and how we coped with things. I really gained a lot of insights through talking to other PLHIVs, and I am eternally grateful to them for that. Just remember, you are not alone. So many of us have, just that everyone keeps hush hush about it. It's always better to know and deal with it rather than not know at all! Cheers!

[mx67]

Hi lostintranslation, many thanks for the advice. Am so glad to have people like yourself here who is most willing to help those like me who are lost. I will need to digest all the information. Once again to all who given me all the valuable advices. Thanks, Thanks. Thanks.

[mx67]

Didn't find it helpful when I went for the counselling session. However, the doctor I see was better help. He recommended me to seek treatment from Bumrungrad International Hospital.

 

And they (Bumrungrad International Hospital) reply my email query with 2 days which help a lot as now I have an idea how much will it cost and how many days I needed to be in Bangkok during the first consultation.

 

Below are some questions I asked. Thought will be helpful for anyone in similar situation as me.

1) What the procedure like? 2) How many days do I need to stay in BKK when seeking my first consultation and treatment? 3) How about will the cost be like?

 

Their reply:

Regarding your inquiries, patient needs to come to see our Infectious Disease Specialist for consultation and examination in the first visit, then the proper tests and treatment plan can be ordered according to each patient's condition.

The estimated costs of the possible / general tests  are as follows:

The estimated price of HIV Ag/Ab is approximately 1,000 Baht ** out patient basis.

The estimated price of Viral Load (HIV RNA) is approximately 6,600 Baht ** out patient basis.

*Remark* Blood samples for Viral load need to be submitted on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday before 10.00 hrs. , result released in the next day and Sunday before 19.00 hrs. result released ion Monday.  

Recommend to stay in Bangkok around 4-5 days for the first consultation and arrange an appointment in advance is recommended.         

The above estimated costs do not include;

• The estimated doctor’s consultation fee may range from 500 – 2,000 Baht / doctor / OPD visit, although in some cases depending on various factors, the fee might vary from the estimate range.
• Any expenses not related to the procedure.
• Costs arising from complications, such as additional medical conditions that may require special treatment during or after the procedure.
• Any follow up costs.
• Take-home medication and medical supplies

*Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

** The estimated costs can be changed after you’ve already seen the surgeon at hospital **

NOTE *These prices are for planning purposes only to assist the patient in understanding the possible range of costs. Actual estimates for care cannot be accurately provided until the patient has been examined by the Bumrungrad physician. The cost ranges provided are based upon our best understanding of the patient's condition at the time of contact and do not represent a minimum or maximum potential cost.

[Guest Guest]

The choice of your meds must be done by a doctor. Please understand that there are other, and much more important aspects, than just the usage convenience. The side effects need to be minimized and they can vary from one person to another. Some meds cannot be used when starting the treatment at high viral load. Other may interfere with different medications that you also have to take, because of your condition. In most cases, you take meds only once a day. There are only a few exceptions when the meds are taken twice a day.

Doctor switching from twice to once. No problems for years on the twice. Still using the remaining batches of twice but wondering about the change. Difficult to go back and ask now.

[Guest Guest]

So sad to see SG HIV patients having to plan and structure their healthcare expenditure on a Thailand baht system.MOH should step up and help the HIV patients more. A disease is still a disease no matter how one got it,there shouldn't be discrimination involve.

[mx67]

Planning to go BKK for my first consultation and treatment in 3rd week of Sept 15, anyone going during that time?

[MenBtySpa]

What will happen to a HIV positive person here if he or she has totally no money or job in life? I can't even imagine. That's why I always ask my friends not to go to gay saunas because of free entry or use gay apps to find casual sex.

 

Please don't think about the money.. 

 

If one who are contact with HIV and have no money, don't be afraid.. go to the doctor and they will help you to look for a Social worker that will help you to find ways to get the proper treatment and medication.... 

 

If your family member is working and you are living with them, the social worker will looking into your terms and maybe help you to apply for Mediaids which you will only pay 25% for your medication.. If not, they will also try their very best to help you to apply for Medifund... than your doctor consultation and medicines will be covered...

 

But if you are working and make a living and you are no able to apply for the mediaid or medifund, you can always look for help from AFA, they do have buyers club to help you to get  medicines from Thailand or India.... 

 

some might said that if will be better to go to BKK for your treatment, but I think that its not a long run term... when you are sick here in Singapore, you won't be able to fly there for your treatment right...

 

My advise is best to get your treatment here in Singapore... be brave.. the doctors will not inform your family if your don't wish to notify them 

[jason212]

Didn't find it helpful when I went for the counselling session. However, the doctor I see was better help. He recommended me to seek treatment from Bumrungrad International Hospital.

 

And they (Bumrungrad International Hospital) reply my email query with 2 days which help a lot as now I have an idea how much will it cost and how many days I needed to be in Bangkok during the first consultatio.

 

 

Hi mx67, I'm sorry to heard that the counselling session was not helpful. My doc also recommended me to speak to a counsellor from oogachaga. I want to be as anonymous as possible and therefore I'm was hesitant to meet some stranger and talk about this. Just to share an experience, a few years ago I met someone who is a counsellor with AFA/Oogachaga (I can't recall now) at a gathering. To my horror, that person was bitching, gossiping and telling others who are the positive people in the AJ circle. I felt so disgusted by this so called counsellor. Therefore the thought of meeting a counsellor and "outing" myself is very uncomfortable.  However, I don't mind a phone conversation with the counsellor from oogachaga. Through the phone call, I know it will be useless. The counsellor could not address some of my questions. I felt he was using a text book counselling method on me which was not useful for me. I don't want to talk about my feelings, I needed directions and answers but there was none through the phone call. He was eager to get me to make an appointment to meet them but I already stated my concern. The phone called ended with nothing of any help to me. I gotten more help and guidances from other guys here. Anyway, I do feel that they are still doing a great work in these area, perhaps for others who are younger. 

 

I will be going to BKK this weekend for my 2nd appointment and to start my medication. I will give you a brief outline to my 1st appointment. I think 4 days would be enough, just in case there are some unforeseen issues. I did mine in 3. Please note, you can choose not to do the genotype test and start the medication but I decided to have all the test done so that my doctor can make the most informed recommendation.  

 

Day 1 (WED) - Doctor appointment 330PM

- Arrived BKK Airport at noon. 

- Took the free hospital shuttle van to the hospital. 

- Arrived at 0200PM. Registration.

- After seeing the doc, 1st blood test. (CD4/VL/Hepatitis/Syphilis)

- Checked into my hotel. 

- COST: 12,000TH

 

Day 2 (THU) - Doctor appointment 530PM

- Reviewed blood test result. (Confirms Positive)

- 2nd blood test to establish baseline. (Full blood count, urine test, Liver, Lipid, EGC, etc etc) These are standard tests.

- Doc recommended doing Genotype test for resistance strains.  Both Bumrungard and red cross anonymous clinic would need the same time for the test but red cross is half the cost.

- COST: 6000TH

 

Day 3 (FRI) - Doctor appointment 0500PM

- Morning - Red cross anonymous clinic for the Genotype test.

- Lunch and Movie. =)

- Reviewed 2nd blood test result.

- Reached BKK airport at 800PM. Flight was at 1000PM

- Reached SIN after midnight.

- COST: 5000TH + 7500TH(Genotype test at Red cross, normally is 5000TH but I took an additional type because I was on PEP before, long story)

 

The most important thing is to decide if you are taking this path to seek treatment overseas. There are already a lot of discussions on the pros and cons seek overseas treatment. I won't go into that. Let's all agree to disagree to such discussions. There is no right or wrong. Do what you can and comfortable for yourself.

Edited August 18, 2015 by jason212

[mx67]

Hi mx67, I'm sorry to heard that the counselling session was not helpful. My doc also recommended me to speak to a counsellor from oogachaga. I want to be as anonymous as possible and therefore I'm was hesitant to meet some stranger and talk about this. Just to share an experience, a few years ago I met someone who is a counsellor with AFA/Oogachaga (I can't recall now) at a gathering. To my horror, that person was bitching, gossiping and telling others who are the positive people in the AJ circle. I felt so disgusted by this so called counsellor. Therefore the thought of meeting a counsellor and "outing" myself is very uncomfortable.  However, I don't mind a phone conversation with the counsellor from oogachaga. Through the phone call, I know it will be useless. The counsellor could not address some of my questions. I felt he was using a text book counselling method on me which was not useful for me. I don't want to talk about my feelings, I needed directions and answers but there was none through the phone call. He was eager to get me to make an appointment to meet them but I already stated my concern. The phone called ended with nothing of any help to me. I gotten more help and guidances from other guys here. Anyway, I do feel that they are still doing a great work in these area, perhaps for others who are younger. 

 

I will be going to BKK this weekend for my 2nd appointment and to start my medication. I will give you a brief outline to my 1st appointment. I think 4 days would be enough, just in case there are some unforeseen issues. I did mine in 3. Please note, you can choose not to do the genotype test and start the medication but I decided to have all the test done so that my doctor can make the most informed recommendation.  

 

Day 1 (WED) - Doctor appointment 330PM

- Arrived BKK Airport at noon. 

- Took the free hospital shuttle van to the hospital. 

- Arrived at 0200PM. Registration.

- After seeing the doc, 1st blood test. (CD4/VL/Hepatitis/Syphilis)

- Checked into my hotel. 

- COST: 12,000TH

 

Day 2 (THU) - Doctor appointment 530PM

- Reviewed blood test result. (Confirms Positive)

- 2nd blood test to establish baseline. (Full blood count, urine test, Liver, Lipid, EGC, etc etc) These are standard tests.

- Doc recommended doing Genotype test for resistance strains.  Both Bumrungard and red cross anonymous clinic would need the same time for the test but red cross is half the cost.

- COST: 6000TH

 

Day 3 (FRI) - Doctor appointment 0500PM

- Morning - Red cross anonymous clinic for the Genotype test.

- Lunch and Movie. =)

- Reviewed 2nd blood test result.

- Reached BKK airport at 800PM. Flight was at 1000PM

- Reached SIN after midnight.

- COST: 5000TH + 7500TH(Genotype test at Red cross, normally is 5000TH but I took an additional type because I was on PEP before, long story)

 

The most important thing is to decide if you are taking this path to seek treatment overseas. There are already a lot of discussions on the pros and cons seek overseas treatment. I won't go into that. Let's all agree to disagree to such discussions. There is no right or wrong. Do what you can and comfortable for yourself.

Hi Jason212,

 

Many thanks for the information. I felt the same was like you when come to the counselling session. I repeatedly mentioned that I only need direction of what I need to do next and not how I am feeling now. But he just similarly unable to provide me the information. Well, am glad I didn't have to go through again and instead I got more useful information and advice here.

 

Here some questions l like to check with you:

1) Does all hospital private shuttle van at the airport or you need to book from the hospital in advance?

2) I know Red cross is cheaper in charges but they have limited slots per day, right?

3) You need to go second trip before you can start on the medication? If so, how many days apart from your first trip?

 

Many thanks

MX67

[Guest NonFlier]

Can I ask if anyone has been seeking treatment in Malaysia ( KL or JB)?

If so, how are the costs like? I'm sure there are good doctors there too. Is there any mandatory reporting by the doctor to the authorities too?

Being non- Malaysian, I'm assuming treatment to be obtained from private hospitals there. Any recommended medical centre?

Thanks in advance.

[Guest PozD]

Hi Jason212,

 

Many thanks for the information. I felt the same was like you when come to the counselling session. I repeatedly mentioned that I only need direction of what I need to do next and not how I am feeling now. But he just similarly unable to provide me the information. Well, am glad I didn't have to go through again and instead I got more useful information and advice here.

 

Here some questions l like to check with you:

1) Does all hospital private shuttle van at the airport or you need to book from the hospital in advance?

2) I know Red cross is cheaper in charges but they have limited slots per day, right?

3) You need to go second trip before you can start on the medication? If so, how many days apart from your first trip?

 

Many thanks

MX67

I live in Germany where HIV treatment is covered by standard medical insurance. I also feel very comfortable with my medical treatment. This is done in a center where all doctors are openly gay and all personnel are gay (or lesbian). I think it is important that you can talk openly with your doctor. As I see, SG guys look for treatment abroad, for financial or other reasons. This may work well. However, let me give you one advice. When you just start your treatment, especially at a low CD4 count, you may need to contact and see your doctor on a short notice. There can be various complications and side effects of the meds and only the doctor should decide what to do in each case. So, it would be a good idea to still have a doctor in SG who knows about your situation and whom you can easily contact.

[lostintranslation]

I live in Germany where HIV treatment is covered by standard medical insurance. I also feel very comfortable with my medical treatment. This is done in a center where all doctors are openly gay and all personnel are gay (or lesbian). I think it is important that you can talk openly with your doctor. As I see, SG guys look for treatment abroad, for financial or other reasons. This may work well. However, let me give you one advice. When you just start your treatment, especially at a low CD4 count, you may need to contact and see your doctor on a short notice. There can be various complications and side effects of the meds and only the doctor should decide what to do in each case. So, it would be a good idea to still have a doctor in SG who knows about your situation and whom you can easily contact.

That's what I love about the Germans. They just don't care who or what you are. They were the ones who asked me what the big deal was when I first got diagnosed. All they said was, Just go see a doctor and take medication! Ha. And lots of truth in those simple words.

And I agree with the need to have our doctors close to us, hence my choice of seeking treatment locally (or wherever I will be). But do realise that a lot of Singaporeans are still very society conscious, and are very concern about how they are being viewed by others. Truth is, this is still a very closed and conventional society. Whilst I think my health outweighs how people look at me by a billion times, I can understand why a lot are still hesitant to be tagged by the ministries and being caught by familiar faces when they seek treatment at the local clinics. I guess at the end of the day, it depends on what one values more. No right or wrong to this but do try to be as logical and factual as we can when we make such lifelong decisions. No one is God and no one has the right to judge another.

Edited August 20, 2015 by lostintranslation

[jason212]

Hi Jason212,

 

Many thanks for the information. I felt the same was like you when come to the counselling session. I repeatedly mentioned that I only need direction of what I need to do next and not how I am feeling now. But he just similarly unable to provide me the information. Well, am glad I didn't have to go through again and instead I got more useful information and advice here.

 

Here some questions l like to check with you:

1) Does all hospital private shuttle van at the airport or you need to book from the hospital in advance?

2) I know Red cross is cheaper in charges but they have limited slots per day, right?

3) You need to go second trip before you can start on the medication? If so, how many days apart from your first trip?

 

Many thanks

MX67

Hi mx69

1. You need to email them indavce to arrange for the shuttle. airportrep@bumrungrad.com

2. No limited slots.

3. My resistance test took 3 weeks. It took me about 1 months to my 2nd appointment.

Do think carefully if you want to seek treatment in BKK.

[mx67]

is the resistance test taken after the first cost of medication?

[mx67]

Anyone been to Bumrungrad International Hospital for treatment, can share your experience? also which hotel near the hospital as well as the BTS?

[Walking Dead]

is the resistance test taken after the first cost of medication?

 Hi mx,

 

Resistance test is typically done before you start on your medication. It serves as an indicator for the doctor to know which course of medication to prescribe to you based on the results of the tests. You can read more about it here https://aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/html/1/adult-and-adolescent-arv-guidelines/6/drug-resistance-testing

 

Anyone been to Bumrungrad International Hospital for treatment, can share your experience? also which hotel near the hospital as well as the BTS?

 

Bumrungrad is near Nana BTS.  There are many hotels and guest houses to suit all types of budgets near the hotel. You can go and check the location of the hotels and the room pricing before you make a decision. I have stayed in hotels that cost $50 a night to $120 a night in that area. There are even cheaper alternatives if you don't mind one with no amenities.

[Guest PozD]

That's what I love about the Germans. They just don't care who or what you are. They were the ones who asked me what the big deal was when I first got diagnosed. All they said was, Just go see a doctor and take medication! Ha. And lots of truth in those simple words.

And I agree with the need to have our doctors close to us, hence my choice of seeking treatment locally (or wherever I will be). But do realise that a lot of Singaporeans are still very society conscious, and are very concern about how they are being viewed by others. Truth is, this is still a very closed and conventional society. Whilst I think my health outweighs how people look at me by a billion times, I can understand why a lot are still hesitant to be tagged by the ministries and being caught by familiar faces when they seek treatment at the local clinics. I guess at the end of the day, it depends on what one values more. No right or wrong to this but do try to be as logical and factual as we can when we make such lifelong decisions. No one is God and no one has the right to judge another.

Hi lostintranslation,

 

Nice to hear you have German friends   Of course, I am happy about how medical treatment is organized in Berlin. But my post was not about this.

 

If somebody is diagnosed with a low CD4 count (certainly, if less than 200, but to some extent also if below 350), taking care of the health risks should be the top priority. Anything can suddenly happen during the period while, under the treatment, your CD4 count remains low and the viral load is high. Having an immediate access to a doctor familiar with your situation is essential then. In such cases, the treatment should be recommened to start in SG, even despite high costs and disclosure risks. It is just that your health weighs more. Later on, if everything goes well, one can switch to Bangkok. On the other hand, there should be absolutely no problem to begin the treatment abroad if your CD4 count is high.

[Guest Been massaged]

A little worried. 2 weeks ago, I went to have an Indian massage at seragoon (I'm Chinese). Wanna try how Indian oil medicated massage works. I chose a massage centre and happen to have a Indian guy attempt me and do massage.

I was lying on the wooden massage table naked. He started to apply the warm oil on my body. And start doing massage. I realized he keep massaging my butt. And slip his fingers into my ass. I feel very nice. Then he took his clothes off and climb on the table, he inset his huge dick into my ass. Doing bareback. I think we had about 20 minutes of fuxking. He cum inside me.

After reading the posts, I getting worried. Will the massusr have HiV tested?

[Guest Guest]

If the massage parlour is a licence registered one then under law all body masseurs have to go to dsc to attend a sex talk and have a clean HIV test result before they can enter this trade and they have to do it annually,but don't take it as a guarantee though because some shops don't follow these rules and neither can you be certain how the masseurs lead their private sex lives. You better go get check after the window period or see if you can start the PEP therapy to have peace of mind.

[mx67]

I am going to BKK for my first treatment on 20 Sept to 24 Sept 15, anyone going during the time?

[jason212]

I just got back. Will be there on the 1st of Oct for my 1st month blood test after starting meds

[Oogachagacare]

Hi mx67, I'm sorry to heard that the counselling session was not helpful. My doc also recommended me to speak to a counsellor from oogachaga. I want to be as anonymous as possible and therefore I'm was hesitant to meet some stranger and talk about this. Just to share an experience, a few years ago I met someone who is a counsellor with AFA/Oogachaga (I can't recall now) at a gathering. To my horror, that person was bitching, gossiping and telling others who are the positive people in the AJ circle. I felt so disgusted by this so called counsellor. Therefore the thought of meeting a counsellor and "outing" myself is very uncomfortable.  However, I don't mind a phone conversation with the counsellor from oogachaga. Through the phone call, I know it will be useless. The counsellor could not address some of my questions. I felt he was using a text book counselling method on me which was not useful for me. I don't want to talk about my feelings, I needed directions and answers but there was none through the phone call. He was eager to get me to make an appointment to meet them but I already stated my concern. The phone called ended with nothing of any help to me. I gotten more help and guidances from other guys here. Anyway, I do feel that they are still doing a great work in these area, perhaps for others who are younger. 

 

 

Hello there, 

 

Thanks for allowing Oogachaga to receive your feedback  about our counselling services.

 

Firstly, we are appalled to hear that  "someone who is a counsellor with AFA/Oogachaga"  may have behaved in an inappropriate way when talking about HIV-positive people in the community. This is totally unacceptable behaviour. If you have more information about this person or incident, can I invite you to get in touch directly with the Executive Director [email: contact@oogachaga.com] so that we may act on it, & prevent this from happening to others.

 

Secondly, we wish to reassure everyone that all our counselling volunteers & staff abide by a Code of Conduct that prevents us from breaching confidentiality about the people we help through our counselling services. Our hotline, WhatsApp & email counsellors are trained to provide mostly emotional support & explore some options. Perhaps our knowledge & experience of handling specific queries on issues (like HIV treatment options) is more limited, and hence not able to meet your needs. We apologise for that shortcoming, and will review our training accordingly.

 

Thirdly, since June last year, our professional counsellors have been stationed at Dr Tan & Partners clinic (at Robertson Walk) on Friday evenings to complement the anonymous HIV testing service by the doctor, & offer onsite counselling support. We are still learning about the different needs of the patients/ clients who come to us at the clinic, and the different ways in which we can offer our counselling support to them.

 

What you are telling us about your experiences is very important feedback for us, so we thank you!!  

 

 

Best regards,

Oogachaga

Edited August 24, 2015 by Oogachagacare

[mx67]

Hello there, 

 

Thanks for allowing Oogachaga to receive your feedback  about our counselling services.

 

Firstly, we are appalled to hear that  "someone who is a counsellor with AFA/Oogachaga"  may have behaved in an inappropriate way when talking about HIV-positive people in the community. This is totally unacceptable behaviour. If you have more information about this person or incident, can I invite you to get in touch directly with the Executive Director [email: contact@oogachaga.com] so that we may act on it, & prevent this from happening to others.

 

Secondly, we wish to reassure everyone that all our counselling volunteers & staff abide by a Code of Conduct that prevents us from breaching confidentiality about the people we help through our counselling services. Our hotline, WhatsApp & email counsellors are trained to provide mostly emotional support & explore some options. Perhaps our knowledge & experience of handling specific queries on issues (like HIV treatment options) is more limited, and hence not able to meet your needs. We apologise for that shortcoming, and will review our training accordingly.

 

Thirdly, since June last year, our professional counsellors have been stationed at Dr Tan & Partners clinic (at Robertson Walk) on Friday evenings to complement the anonymous HIV testing service by the doctor, & offer onsite counselling support. We are still learning about the different needs of the patients/ clients who come to us at the clinic, and the different ways in which we can offer our counselling support to them.

 

What you are telling us about your experiences is very important feedback for us, so we thank you!!  

 

 

Best regards,

Oogachaga

Like myself, when I got to know about my condition what I want to know is what to do next and not keep asking me how I feel. It's doesn't make sense. Especially when Dr Tan & Partners keep ensuring me that the counsellor are well verse in type of treatment available locally and overseas.

 

After the session, I still have to source information myself for treatment whether locally or overseas. I will really appreciated if counsellor have knowledge about local and overseas treatment. What one can do next or how to go about it. Especially, one will feel so lost after knowing the result, will be great to have someone guide them step by step.  

 

Just my 2 cents thought, didn't mean to offend anyone. Thanks

[Guest jake]

Hi guys, recently bf was diagnosed being hiv+ and i m ok. While this is a tough period to go through, I m hoping to resume our lives. Can you please advice what are the do n don't in sex? I m still wondering (despite many readings)if I can do normal stuff like bj,rimming or even bb etc

Please help advise ...Thank you!

[Guest Guest]

Hi guys, recently bf was diagnosed being hiv+ and i m ok. While this is a tough period to go through, I m hoping to resume our lives. Can you please advice what are the do n don't in sex? I m still wondering (despite many readings)if I can do normal stuff like bj,rimming or even bb etc

Please help advise ...Thank you!

bb does not = you love him much,

if he still love you, he would not want to put you in any risk,

remember that he may shoot his load inside you if he unable to controll,

low risk do not mean no risk, love youself and protect yourself.

[Guest PozD]

Hi guys, recently bf was diagnosed being hiv+ and i m ok. While this is a tough period to go through, I m hoping to resume our lives. Can you please advice what are the do n don't in sex? I m still wondering (despite many readings)if I can do normal stuff like bj,rimming or even bb etc

Please help advise ...Thank you!

If your bf starts to take meds and treatment goes normally, without complications, he should expect to reach the undetectable status within about a year. After that, under mutual consent, you can practically do whatever you like, the risk is low.

 

During the time when the undetectable status has not yet been reached and viruses remain present in blood and cum, you need to be however careful indeed. Bareback is absolutely excluded. Bj is OK, but no cum in the mouth. Remember that HIV is also transferred through blood. If your friend has an injury and is bleeding, avoid getting in contact with the blood. Even small amounts of blood may be enough to get infected. No danger when sleeping together, sharing food, kissing, hj. Rimming should be better avoided because there are viruses in the anus.

[Guest jake]

Thank you guys..I guess everything needs to adapt, personal favourites (haha) loves rimming,bb him for long long time has all to stop. Haiz....

pozd, he has started on med will see how 1 year result.

have a great weekend!

[Guest Guest]

Ur bf IS a slut to begin with. I wonder y u love rimming n bb him when.everyone else has done so

[Sagui_32]

What will happen to a HIV positive person here if he or she has totally no money or job in life? I can't even imagine. That's why I always ask my friends not to go to gay saunas because of free entry or use gay apps to find casual sex.

So meanng Gay sauna didnt have any precautions? Or during membership they dont require HIV test result? Correct me if im wrong, for sure people with HIV will not going to tell to someone in sauna that They have HIV..

I just know the sauna here in SG few months ago..that time im wondering if SG have like gay bars like that..one site i had visited is travel gay asia where i discover this gay sauna...from then on i really wanted to try visiting.. But my mind keep telling me not safe..so i guess if u go often in these gay saunas and unprotected, you will have high chances to be contacted with HIV..

[Guest PozD]

The majority of new infections comes from unprotected anal sex with the partners, friends or strangers, who DO NOT know that they have HIV. It is rare that somebody, who has HIV and knows that he is infectious, would allow him unprotected sex, in saunas or elsewhere. If he does, he is breaking the law and can be legally prosecuted. The gay sauna as such is not dangerous, but the unprotected sex in the sauna is dangerous indeed. Those who regularly visit gay saunas and are involved in frequent unprotected anal sex, top or bottom, have higher chances to become infected. Note that anal intercourse without cumming inside is not the protected sex, you can get infected then as well.

[mx67]

Going to bkk for treatment next month all by myself, am a bit worry. The feeling not like I go there alone for holiday.

[Poz+32]

Hi been masaged , may i know whats the name of the indian massage parlour?

[Guest Being massaged]

The Indian massage shop is oppo civil service club. I forgot the Indian shop name. Will you be going to the shop?

[Poz+32]

Is it the orange color shophouse building?

[Guest Being massaged]

Yes, that's right. You are been massaged by him before? He don't use condom and cum inside.