Patient care for persons with HIV infection.

The department may establish human immunodeficiency virus patient care networks in each region of the state where the number of cases of human immunodeficiency virus transmission justifies the establishment of cost-effective regional patient care networks. Such networks shall be delineated by rule of the department which shall take into account natural trade areas and centers of medical excellence that specialize in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus, as well as available federal, state, and other funds. Each patient care network shall include representation of persons with human immunodeficiency virus infection; health care providers; business interests; the department, including, but not limited to, county health departments; and local units of government. Each network shall plan for the care and treatment of persons with human immunodeficiency virus in a cost-effective, dignified manner that emphasizes outpatient and home care. Once per year, each network shall make its recommendations concerning the needs for patient care to the department.