hiv CARE for well-being

HIV test

Individuals who test positive for HIV should seek immediate medical care to begin appropriate treatment and maintain their health. Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) within 30 days of diagnosis is strongly recommended, as early treatment increases the chances of achieving an undetectable viral load, improving long-term health outcomes. Prompt medical attention is essential to effectively manage the condition and prevent complications.

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HIV CARE

Individuals who have tested positive for HIV must receive appropriate medical treatment to maintain their good health and achieve an undetectable diagnosis. It is highly recommended that people seek medical care within 30 days of their positive diagnosis to start their antiretroviral therapy as soon as possible. Therefore, people must seek medical care as quickly as possible after their positive diagnosis so that they can begin their antiretroviral treatment and manage their condition effectively.

SKILLS-BASED VOLUNTEERING

H.Y.P.E. is currently recruiting volunteers with specialized skill sets and those with an interest in growing and honing their existing skills. You can utilize your talents and develop as a leader, learn as a member of a team, and empower yourself and your community.

Our skills-based volunteers use their specialized knowledge. This knowledge may come from formal education, life experience, or past community service. Volunteers provide a range of services, from consulting with agencies to better engage HIV-positive and HIV-affected youth to executing projects for the Executive Director and Board of Directors.

H.Y.P.E. to Empower helps people living with HIV in Atlanta, GA, and throughout the United States. If you would like to volunteer, please contact us today.

What is Linkage to Care (LTC)?

Linkage to Care (LTC) is a specialized program that provides intensive case management for individuals who have been recently diagnosed with HIV (within the last 12 months) or those who have fallen out of care. This program offers personalized support, helping individuals understand their diagnosis, schedule appointments with an HIV primary care provider, and connect with essential services.

Early medical care is a crucial step in managing HIV effectively.
The goal of LTC is to ensure individuals begin medical care within 30 days of diagnosis and remain engaged in ongoing treatment

What is Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)?

● ART is the recommended treatment for HIV, reducing the amount of the virus in the body when taken as prescribed.

● Individuals new to ART typically start with oral medication before transitioning to injectable options, based on medical guidance.

How Does ART Work?

● Lowers the viral load (the amount of HIV in the blood), helping individuals manage their condition.

● Effective treatment can reduce the virus to undetectable levels, meaning it cannot be transmitted through sex (Undetectable = Untransmittable).

How Can I Access Linkage to Care?

Getting connected to care is simple. Click the button below to start your Linkage to Care journey today

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Know Your Status – Get Tested for HIV

Regular HIV testing is essential for sexually active individuals to protect their health and the health of others. Early detection allows for the best outcomes with antiretroviral therapy (ART) and reduces the risk of transmission. If you are sexually active, routine testing every 3 to 6 months is strongly recommended.

Who Should Get Tested?

The CDC recommends that everyone aged 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime, with more frequent testing for those at higher risk.

How Long Does an HIV Test Take?

Most tests take 30 minutes or less, depending on the type of test.

Get Tested for FREE

Access FREE HIV testing in Georgia today.

Click the button below to find a testing location near you!

Get Tested for FREE

Protect Yourself – Use Condoms Effectively

Condoms are an essential means of preventing the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. They are up to 90% effective in reducing the risk of HIV transmission when used consistently and correctly. However, it is important to note that condoms may not be as effective in preventing the transmission of STIs that can be transmitted through cuts or sores on the skin.

Are there different kinds of condoms?

Yes, there are internal and external condoms. Internal condoms are used for vaginal and anal sex. It is a pouch made of latex and can protect you from HIV transmission. External condoms are worn over the penis during sexual intercourse and can also protect you from HIV transmission.

Where Can I Get Condoms?

They can be purchased at stores or picked up from your local health department.

How Can I get FREE Condoms?

Click the button below to gain access to free condoms.

Free condoms

Protect Yourself with PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective medication available in pill or injection form that can reduce your risk of contracting HIV by up to 99% through sexual contact and 74% through injection drug use—but only when taken as prescribed.

Who Should Consider PrEP?

PrEP is recommended if you:

● Have a sexual partner with HIV, especially if their viral load is unknown or detectable.

● Do not consistently use condoms during sex.

● Have been diagnosed with an STI in the past six months.

● Inject drugs and share needles, syringes, or other injection equipment.

PrEP may also be beneficial if you have been prescribed non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) and:

● Engage in ongoing risk behaviors.

● Have used multiple courses of PEP

Where Can I Get PrEP?

PrEP is available through healthcare providers and local health departments. Click the button below to streamline the process and get the care you need today.

hiv CARE for well-being

HIV CARE