Comment on "HIV/AIDS sufferers rejected by hospitals" (China Daily, May 18)

I was shocked to read that HIV/AIDS patients are being denied treatment in hospitals. This is unacceptable.

People in cities are familiar with the disease, and the government has made great efforts to prevent its spread. And many people know the disease cannot be contracted easily - and that the chance of contracting it is almost zero if we take necessary preventive measures.

Doctors, nurses and paramedics, who undergo professional medical training, should have a deeper knowledge of HIV/AIDS than ordinary people. But surprisingly its doctors and other hospital staff members that are turning HIV/AIDS patients away.

The function of a hospital is to provide medical treatment to patients. Hospitals and medical workers are obliged to treat patients. If they refuse to do so, the authorities should punish them for their irresponsible behavior.

What will happen to HIV/AIDS patients if hospitals, clinics and doctors start discriminating against them? This is not how members of a civilized society are supposed to behave.

Lila, via e-mail

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(China Daily 05/20/2011 page9)