The treatment of HIV-positive people requires numerous considerations (Table 1). There are ten different perspective-systems in Chinese medicine in which to look at the human as an organic whole. Some would say that 'discrimination of patterns' is the key but I prefer to use multiple systems at the same time. The more one can reach a wholistic view the better the treatment and results. The reason is that AIDS has pathological changes that are complicated with a great potential to vary at different stages. One needs to differentiate acute from chronic and primary from secondary.

General western medical professions are slow to accept the Primary Alternative Medicine of this millennium. A case in point is a major hospital in Miami where I have very narrow 'temporary' staff privileges that include the administration of Chinese herbs. Although this privilege requires a very stringent set of requirements it is a move forward for Primary Alternative Medicine. 

The acupuncture profession is making headway in many arenas but still there is obstruction by insurance companies in terms of reimbursement and limitation of services such as in Hospice. One case in point is an elderly woman with one of the worst bedsores I have ever seen. My intent was primarily to close the wound and alleviate her pain in that area. The western paradigm was failing drastically and surgery is not an option they want to take. An ancient formula handed down to me by my mentor was approved for use on this patient. The wound is now beginning to close and if I dare use the word...'heal'. Hospice adamantly commented before the treatment that they would only pay for one treatment by me.