HIV/AIDS is a condition characterized by a variety of medical and social needs that vary between individuals and over time. Case management has been advocated as a means to improve problems of access, cost and outcomes of HIV/AIDS care. This study examines whether having a case manager is associated with better physical and mental health scores.

The authors analyzed data from a nationally representative sample of 2,251 HIV-positive persons receiving care in the in the HIV Costs and Services Utilization Study (HCSUS). Participants were interviewed at baseline and approximately 18 months later. Data were collected on use of case management, sociodemographics, antiretroviral therapy and health-related quality of life.

Findings support a beneficial relationship between case managers and physical health for patients with HIV but only among those not already receiving recommended treatment with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART).