Written by Keri Wiginton
Medically Reviewed by Neha Pathak, MD on October 22, 2024

Take these steps after your HIV diagnosis

Meet Your Guide
photo of smiling mature man
Charles Sanchez
Advocate

Twenty years ago, Charles Sanchez was diagnosed with HIV. A dedicated artist and activist, he regularly writes for POZ magazine and HuffPost Queer Voices. His award-winning web series, Merce, is a positive representation of life as an HIV-positive man in New York. Charles is also a WebMD blogger.

Show Sources

SOURCES:

Charles Sanchez, 56, HIV patient advocate, New York City. 

HIV.gov: “What to Expect From Your First HIV Care Visit,” “Seeing Your Healthcare Provider,” “How Is HIV Transmitted?” “Types of Providers,” “Exercise and Physical Activity,” “How to Pay for HIV Care and Treatment.”

San Francisco Aids Foundation: “An HIV Doctor’s Take on HIV Stigma.” 

CDC: “About HIV,” “HIV 101,” “HIV Treatment as Prevention,” “PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis).” 

View privacy policy and trust info

See More on HIV & AIDS From WebMD

Go Now