Attitudes and experience of Singapore doctors and dental surgeons regarding acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients.

A survey conducted in September 1987 among medical doctors and dental surgeons in Singapore found that most respondents expressed personal reservations and inadequacies in dealing with AIDS/HIV-positive patients and homosexuals. They were also concerned about exposure of their staff to AIDS patients and their likely reactions towards treating these patients. The risk of contagion with AIDS was a major deterrent expressed. The majority of the health professionals had no experience in the management of AIDS related conditions. Although many indicated interest in training, only less than half were willing to undergo what they perceived as the more effective clinically based training themselves.