Physicians' attitudes and practices regarding treatment of HIV-infected patients.

We conducted a statewide survey to identify physicians' experiences, attitudes, and practices related to HIV-infected patients. A random sample, stratified by medical specialty (primary care, surgery, emergency medicine), was drawn. Physicians were concerned about contagion and inadequate knowledge to care for HIV-infected patients; 40% reported refusing or referring new HIV-infected patients. Differences across medical specialty and respondents' interest in various medical education topics to remedy knowledge deficits are discussed.