It is true that due to extensive research and money dedicated solely to finding a cure to HIV/AIDS, people with the condition are living longer and healthier lives. Still, new cases arise every day meaning more research, money and education is needed.
In 2008, Indiana reported 9,186 AIDS cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which ranked the state 24th highest among the 50 states in cumulative AIDS cases. To help the state continue to fight against the disease, in 2009 the CDC provided the state with $4 million, which also included funds dedicated to the prevention of HIV. The money supports the state health department to conduct and support HIV prevention programs, which are designed to meet the cultural needs, expectations and values of the populations they serve. It’s also used to involve the affected communities to help in the planning process to ensure the funding goes to those who need it most.
Money from the CDC, federal government and other resources provide Indiana with a host of programs used to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, educate schools and communities, and provide much needed services.
Support program
The special populations support program provides intensive support services to those diagnosed with HIV and chemical dependency. It also provides HIV testing in treatment facilities sanctioned by the state Department of Mental Health and Addictions.
The program is designed to give individuals the services of disease prevention and supportive care. Those infected with HIV are referred to the program’s support specialists who assist with interventions designed to minimize substance abuse and maximize treatment programs.
For more information, call (317) 233-7418.
HIV care coordination
A specialized form of HIV case management is the HIV care coordination program. Services are available statewide and care coordinators provide individuals with an individualized plan of care that includes medical, psychosocial, financial and other supportive services, as needed. Services are free.
Care coordinators can also provide assistance with how to access health insurance to obtain medications, referrals to optical and dental care, as well as support group referrals.
For more information call the Damian Center at (317) 632-0123.
HIV medical services
The HIV medical services program provides assistance to individuals with HIV in need of therapeutic medication and medical services. The program allows a person full access to comprehensive health insurance at no cost.
The program provides both short and long-term benefit packages covering basic health care as well as HIV-related medical services and medications. Four different plans are offered: health insurance assistance plan, AIDS drugs Assistance plan, early prevention plan and Medicare Part D assistance plan.
For more information call (866) 588-4948 and select option No. 1.
The Damian Center
The Damian Center serves anyone affected by HIV/AIDS including family and friends. Services include care coordination services, free HIV testing, legal assistance, food pantry, haircuts, transportation and mental health services among others.
For more information call (317) 632-0123.
Indiana AIDS Fund
The Indiana AIDS Fund is a funding partner whose goal is to help prevent HIV/AIDS. Since 1994 the Indiana AIDS Fund has become the largest private funder of HIV/AIDS programs in Indiana. Its programs include: food and nutrition; capacity building, direct care and services, training on AIDS in the workplace, faith based initiatives in communities of color and advocacy programs among others.
For more information call (317) 630-1805.
Estimated AIDS diagnosis by race through 2008
White: 63.1 percent
Black: 29.8 percent
Hispanic: 5 percent
Multiple Races: 1.1 percent
Information
provided by the CDC
