Before writing the first prescription, clinicians should assess the patient\'s readiness to take medication, which might take two or three office visits and patience. Patient education should include the goals of therapy, including a review of expected outcomes that are based on baseline viral load and CD4 T cell counts. The reason for adherence, and the plan for and mechanics of adherence should be discussed with the patient. Because medication side effects can affect treatment adherence, clinicians should inform patients in advance of possible side effects and when they are likely to occur. Trusting relationships among the patient, clinician, and health team are essential.