Contact Nestor Chardon at (305) 243-8872 or e-mail [email protected] to schedule appointment.

Ryan White Program 2030*

HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau has launched a new webpage dedicated to information about Ryan White Program 2030. In April 2024, HRSA announced the Ryan White Program 2030, which builds off the foundation of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and the innovative strategies from the first four years of the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative.

Ryan White Program 2030 calls on the HIV community to continue to care for those in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program while we also prioritize efforts to reach people with HIV who are out of care and not virally suppressed by leveraging partnerships, focusing interventions, and engaging community to end the HIV epidemic in the U.S.

Posted November 2024

The Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in Adults and Adolescents With HIV* have been updated. Highlights from the updated sections are summarized in the HIV.gov blogpost: Update to the Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in Adults and Adolescents With HIV | HIV.gov*

CDC Releases 2023 STI Surveillance Report*
Content From: Bradley Stoner, MD, PhD, Director, Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published: November 13, 2024

Dear colleagues,

We are pleased to announce the addition of the smallpox/mpox vaccine (mpox) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) formulary effective today. For information regarding the indications and dosing of these vaccines, please review the following resources:

 Smallpox/Mpox Vaccine

• Mpox vaccine recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/vaccines/vaccine-recommendations.html*
• Interim clinical considerations for use of JYNNEOS vaccine for mpox prevention in the United States: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/clinicians/vaccines/vaccine-considerations.html*
• JYNNEOS prescribing information: https://bavariannordic.io/uploads/jynneos-pi.pdf

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine

• RSV immunizations: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/rsv/index.html*
• AREXVY prescribing information (not indicated for use in pregnant women): https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_US/Prescribing_Information/Arexvy/pdf/AREXVY.PDF
• ABRYSVO prescribing information (indicated for older adults or pregnant women): https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=19589*

Please direct any clinical questions to Dr. Andréa Sciberras, Medical Director, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection at [email protected].*

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this formulary change, contact the ADAP state health office at 844-381-2327.

The complete ADAP formulary is available at FloridaADAP.org.*

Services include rental and utility subsidies, moving incidentals, linkage to additional services, vocational and life skills support, and case management to develop and implement a plan to ensure ongoing housing stability by improving opportunities to increase client income through employment or access to SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery (SOAR), securing permanent tenant based rental assistance, or placement in permanent supportive housing).

HSS will be provided to EHE program-eligible individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability for up to 24 months from each client’s enrollment, subject to available funding.

The only eligibility requirement is that the client has a confirmed HIV diagnosis.

Click here for agency contacts.

In Miami!

Test & Treat Rapid Access Program* Through the Test & Treat Rapid Access (TTRA) Program, clients with a new HIV diagnosis in Miami-Dade County can access ART, receive other services and counseling, start enrolling in RWHAP, and connect to HIV primary care during the initial visit. At Borinquen Health Care Center, one of the clinical sites participating in TTRA, 76% of clients were virally suppressed within three months of receiving a rapid ART start, and 95% were retained in care for 12 months.

Project ACCEPT* Project ACCEPT is designed to improve engagement and retention in medical care for youth ages 16 to 24 years with newly diagnosed HIV. The educational and skill-building intervention was deployed at four demonstration sites and increased rates of medication use and appointment adherence in comparison to a control group. Although originally developed for cisgender youth, Project ACCEPT may be adapted for gender-diverse people.

Stay Connected for Your Health* Stay Connected for Your Health helps clients stay engaged in HIV medical care through clinic-wide messaging, enhanced personal contact, and behavioral skills training. Originally implemented by six academically affiliated HIV clinics nationwide more than 10 years ago, this 12-month intervention has become well-established and is incorporated in many provider trainings. Evaluations show that people with HIV receiving behavioral skills training and personalized and frequent positive messages about care engagement were more likely to be engaged in care.

Patient-Centered HIV Care Model* The Patient-Centered HIV Care Model (PCHCM) integrates the services of community-based HIV specialized pharmacists and HIV medical providers to deliver patient-centered care for people with HIV. PCHCM expands upon the medication therapy management model by including information sharing between partnered pharmacy and clinic teams; collaborative medication-related action planning between pharmacists, medical providers, and patients; and quarterly follow-up pharmacy visits. Patients participating in the intervention had improved retention in care and viral suppression rates.

Dear Colleague Letter re HIV and Aging Miami-Dade HIV/AIDS Partnership

Recommended practices to address possible age-related health concerns.

Congressional Roundtable for People Over 50 Living with HIV

Thursday, May 16, 2024, 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm – NMAC will host a Congressional roundtable on Capitol Hill to discuss people over 50 living with HIV. The event will be hosted in collaboration with Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, the HIV AIDS Congressional Caucus, and the Equality Caucus. 2043 Rayburn House Office Building, Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. Panelists will be announced next week. (posted May 3, 2024). To RSVP, please email Zach Miller at [email protected].

The Big Picture: Over 50 and living with HIV in America (NMAC Policy News)

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), out of the nearly 1.2 million people living with HIV in the United States, over half are over the age of 50. With its Over 50 Group, NMAC emphasizes the urgent need to prioritize the well-being of our aging population living with HIV.

While therapeutic advancements in HIV treatment have significantly improved the lives of individuals over 50 with HIV, it’s imperative to ensure their continued protection and support as they navigate the challenges of aging.

Addressing the persistent health challenges confronting individuals over 50 living with HIV requires a nuanced understanding of their unique circumstances. This demographic often grapples with managing multiple chronic conditions as well as mental and behavioral health issues while navigating healthcare systems that may not adequately cater to their needs. These obstacles significantly impact their quality of life and overall wellness.

As we acknowledge the growing population of individuals over 50 living with HIV, NMAC reaffirms its commitment to advocating for comprehensive clinical and support services and tailored healthcare solutions that empower this community to thrive. By fostering collaboration and promoting policies that prioritize their well-being, we can collectively work towards a future where all individuals, regardless of age, receive the care and support they deserve.

A Tribute to Hydia Broadbent: A Shining Star in the World of HIV Advocacy By Positive People Network, Inc.

In the realms of advocacy, dance, and sisterhood, we bid a bittersweet farewell to a remarkable soul, Hydia Broadbent. Born with HIV, she not only defied the odds but emerged as the youngest beacon of light in the world of HIV advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.

Hydia’s journey, intertwined with the complexities of being born with HIV, was a testament to her resilience, courage, and unyielding spirit. She carried the torch of advocacy with grace, becoming a guiding force for so many who found strength and inspiration in her story.

As a sister to so many, Hydia brought joy, laughter, and an unwavering bond. Her love knew no bounds, and her presence illuminated even the darkest corners of our lives. Through the highs and lows, she remained a constant source of support, reminding us of the power of love.

For those of us who shared a dance with Hydia , you know she loved to shake a leg. Back that thing up, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, and drop it like it’s hot.

As a fellow advocate, Hydia spoke with a voice that resonated far beyond her years. Her words were not just advocacy; they were poetry, weaving tales of strength, breaking the chains of stigma, and fostering a sense of unity within the HIV community. Her advocacy reached beyond statistics and medical facts; it touched the hearts of those who needed it most.

On February 20th, 2024, we said goodbye to Hydia. Yet, the light she ignited continues to shine brightly within us. As we mourn the loss of a sister, a dance partner, and a fellow advocate, let us also celebrate the profound impact she had on our lives.

Hydia Broadbent, your journey on this earthly stage may have concluded, but the dance of your advocacy, the melody of your love, and the warmth of your spirit will resonate eternally in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear Hydia. Your light will forever guide us.

Alecia Tramel-McIntyre
CEO/Founder, Positive People Network Inc.
Your Miami Family.

In light of recent reports of Measles cases in Florida, it is important that we review information on this vaccine preventable disease. Measles is a serious contagious disease, but it can be prevented.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus spread through the air when a person coughs or sneezes. It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 9-10 people around them will become infected if they are not protected.

Symptoms appear 7-14 days after exposure with a fever (up to 104 degrees) followed by a cough (lasting 10 days), runny nose and red eyes. The rash appears 3-5 days after the first symptoms and can last for a week.

How serious is Measles? It is very serious both with illness symptoms and possible health complications of pneumonia, encephalitis and even death!

The good news is that there is a safe and effective vaccine (MMR) given to children at age 12-15 months and again at 4-6 years. Teenagers and adults who show no evidence of immunity to measles can get 2 doses separated by 28 days.

For more information, talk with your health care provider, or contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/measles and https://www.cdc.gov/measles/symptoms/signs-symptoms.html

What To Say When Someone Says They Have HIV* (Huffington Post) By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – If a friend or partner tells you that they have HIV, you might be unsure how to respond. But you don’t need to know all of the scientific terminology and latest data on HIV to offer comfort and support. Depending on the specific situation and tone, click here* for five things that you might consider saying when someone tells you their HIV status.

September 27, 2023

New Data from the HIV Surveillance Unit within the Bureau of Communicable Diseases.  Routine interstate deduplication review for the 2022 HIV data and can now provide you with a brief update on the state of the HIV epidemic in Florida. This updated information is published on Florida (FL) Health CHARTS.

Posted on September 27, 2023

September 14, 2023

HIV Diagnoses among U.S. Hispanics: Trends and Inequities Hispanic Equity Briefs (September 2023) Institute for Latinx Health Equity and Latino Commission on AIDS.  Over the past decades, state and local HIV prevention efforts, including Ending the Epidemic strategies, led to notable reductions in new HIV diagnoses across various subpopulations. However, this progress has been uneven. In some states, the number of new diagnoses has decreased more slowly for Hispanics compared to the whole population . . .

Posted on September 14, 2023

September 14, 2023

New EHE Infographic!* HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau (HAB) has a new infographic that highlights 2021 data from the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. (EHE) initiative. The infographic presents national data on people served by HAB EHE-funded providers in 2021. In 2021, HAB EHE-funded providers served 22,413 people with HIV new to care and 15,318 people estimated to be re-engaged in care. HAB EHE recipients are implementing proven, promising, and innovative strategies and services to link and engage people with HIV in care so that they can reach optimal HIV outcomes, which significantly reduces new HIV infections in the U.S. More tools!*

Posted on September 14, 2023

Posted on August 18, 2023

Posted on June 14, 2023

• World AIDS Day 2022 at NIH: Reflecting on the Progress and Promise of HIV/AIDS Research* (HIV.gov, December 15, 2022) On December 1, 2022, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) commemorated World AIDS Day by highlighting past advances and potential breakthroughs in care and health outcomes made possible by HIV/AIDS research. In a virtual public event, NIH facilitated a compelling discussion about recent progress in HIV/AIDS research and the promise of future studies. The event was organized by the Office of AIDS Research (OAR), which also coordinates NIH’s HIV/AIDS research portfolio . . .

• The Power of Peer Support: Breaking the Chains of Stigma Together as we Age with HIV*  (YouTube) Howard University Pediatrics.  Featuring HIV Partnership Vice Chair, Alberto Perez Bermudez.

Posted December 9, 2022

• The 2022-2026 Miami-Dade County Integrated HIV/AIDS Prevention and Care Plan was submitted to HRSA on November 28, 2022.  The 2022-26 Integrated Plan incorporates the goals and objectives of  local, state, and national initiatives to achieve the national HIV goal, “Reducing the number of new HIV infections in the US by 75% by 2025, and then by at least 90% by 2030.” Specifically, this Plan is a comprehensive update of the 2017-21 Integrated Plan and fully incorporates the 2021 Ending the HIV Epidemic Jurisdictional Plan, and the Getting to Zero and other jurisdictional needs assessments and targeted community initiatives. Administration (AHCA; i.e., Medicaid); and others.

Posted November 21, 2022

• HHS Highlights Innovative Approaches Funded in Fiscal Year 2022 to Expand Care and Treatment for People with HIV* (www.hrsa.gov Press Release) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), today, highlighted a series of innovative new approaches to expand care and treatment for people with HIV supported by the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program in fiscal year 2022. Over the past year, HRSA awarded approximately $2.3 billion dollars to cities, counties, states, and local community-based organizations to provide life-saving care, treatment, and support services for over half a million people with HIV in the United States.  For a detailed breakdown of FY 2022 funding by Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part, visit https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/about/parts-and-initiatives/fy2022-awards*.

Posted November 4, 2022

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• Florida Department Of Health In Miami-Dade County Providing Lifesaving Naloxone To Reduce Substance Abuse Deaths  Miami, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County (DOH-Miami-Dade) is announcing the availability of free Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray kits. This lifesaving medication could reduce thousands of substance abuse deaths across the state. Naloxone is available to people who use drugs, people with a history of drug use, others at risk of experiencing an overdose, friends, family members, and others who may witness an overdose. Kits consist of two Naloxone nasal sprays that are administered even without a health care professional present . . . Contact: Office of Communication, (786) 336-1276.

Posted November 3, 2022

• For Providers on Telehealth.HHS.gov: New Telebehavioral Health Care Best Practice Guide*  Telehealth.HHS.gov has added a new best practice guide on telehealth for behavioral health care. Behavioral health – like other areas of health care – has changed significantly due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. It is now easier for mental health providers to offer and get reimbursed for telebehavioral health services. Telehealth can also make behavioral health services safer and more private and convenient for patients who can access care from their home. Find resources in the telebehavioral health best practice guide on getting started, developing a strategy, billing, preparing patients, and more.

Posted September 22, 2022

• Issue Brief: Status Neutral HIV Care and Service Delivery Eliminating Stigma and Reducing Health Disparities* (CDC.gov) Today, powerful HIV prevention and treatment tools can keep people healthy and help end the HIV epidemic. Combining these tools in a status neutral approach can help people maintain their best health possible, while also improving outcomes in HIV prevention, diagnosis, care, and treatment. A status neutral approach to HIV-related service delivery aims to deliver high-quality, culturally affirming health care and services at every engagement, supporting optimal health for people with and without HIV. This approach is especially important now to reduce the unacceptably high number of annual HIV infections and help close the persistent gaps along the HIV prevention and care continuum, which indicate that not enough people are being engaged or retained in HIV prevention and treatment.

Posted September 20, 2022

• HRSA Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Observes HIV and Aging Awareness Day*  On Sunday, September 18, we will observe National HIV and Aging Awareness Day. According to the 2020 RWHAP Annual Client-Level Data Report, 47.9 percent of RWHAP clients are aged 50 and older. Viral suppression rates among clients receiving RWHAP medical care were 92.9 percent for RWHAP clients aged 50 years and older, which is higher than the national RWHAP average of 89.4 percent. Read a recent TargetHIV blog post* to learn more about this population and RWHAP services and resources designed to meet their needs.

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Posted July 28, 2022

• CDC Awards Funding for Transgender Status-Neutral Community-to-Clinic Models to End the HIV Epidemic* (HIV.gov – July 13, 2022)  At the end of June, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awarded a total of $2 million in first-year funding to four organizations to develop models for community-to-clinic, status-neutral HIV prevention and care services for transgender persons. Click here* to read the complete HIV.gov blog post.  The four funding recipients are:
  • St. John’s Community Health in Los Angeles, CA
  • Care Resource Community Health Center in Miami, FL
  • Callen-Lorde Community Health Center in New York, NY
  • Whitman-Walker Health in Washington, DC
• Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Compass Dashboard*  The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Compass Dashboard provides users an opportunity to interact with and visualize the reach, impact, and outcomes of the RWHAP. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) HIV/AIDS Bureau (HAB) developed the RWHAP Compass Dashboard to support data utilization to improve outcomes along the HIV care continuum. By advancing users’ ability to interact with and utilize RWHAP program data, the dashboard supports HRSA HAB’s vision of optimal HIV/AIDS care and treatment for all.

Posted July 20, 2022

• Recognizing the Importance of People-First Language (Gilead)  Using inappropriate or inaccurate language to describe people living with HIV increases the amount of stigma and stress they can experience. One way to address stigma is to use people-first language, which is language that puts a person before a diagnosis, describing what a person “has” rather than asserting what a person “is.” Click to learn more.

Posted July 1, 2022

• Imagine Ending HIV. It’s Possible.* New Campaign to Promote EHE! Just launched! Technical Assistance Provider innovation network (TAP-in) national campaign to inspire the HIV workforce to end the HIV epidemic by reducing the number of new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. The #ImagineEndingHIV campaign aims to improve staff’s leadership capacity and to support local health department leaders, teams, and partners from the 47 Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program jurisdictions to implement innovative interventions along the HIV care continuum. Visit targethiv.org/imagine* for all the campaign resources!

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Posted June 28, 2022

• Florida Department of Health, HIV Section Notice On Thursday, May 26, 2022, the Florida Department of Health convened a roundtable with state agencies and state associations to obtain buy-in at the state level for the expansion of routine HIV, hepatitis C and syphilis screening within acute care settings and hospital emergency departments. The objectives of the roundtable were to: 1. Discuss the current state of the Gilead Sciences Frontlines of Communities in the United States (FOCUS) and plans for expansion and sustainability of current model; 2. Discuss barriers and challenges to expansion; and 3. Identify stakeholder champions to assist with future expansion and sustainability implementation.  A brief summary report of the roundtable will be forthcoming and will also be shared on this page.

• Millions to Fund Approaches to Address Unsheltered Homelessness Announced* The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released a first-of-its-kind package of resources to address unsheltered homelessness and homeless encampments.  Total funding of $322 million is a supplement to HUD’s Continuum of Care (CoC) Program*, with $43 million for incremental housing vouchers for at-risk households, and $54 million set aside for projects in rural areas.

Posted May 19, 2022

• Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. Programs*
  • Tenants’ Equal Justice Clinic (Hybrid – Remote / Zoom)  Monday – Thursday, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Designed for volunteer attorneys to give free legal advice to low-income individuals whose landlord has not returned a security deposit or clients who are living in unsuitable, unsafe or unhealthy living  conditions. Attorneys assist with initiating pro se Small Claims Court case or drafting letters to assist the client in curing legal issues that impede stable housing or habitability. Types of cases: Security Deposit; Prohibited Practices.
  • Consumer Equal Justice Clinic (Hybrid – Remote / Zoom)  Monday and Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Attorneys will give free legal advice and brief service to low-income individuals who face abusive debt collection problems. The clinic will see clients who are being sued and clients who have not yet been sued. Types of cases: Collection issues for credit card debt; Medical debt; Auto loan deficiencies; Collector harassment; Identity theft fraud; Credit reporting errors; and Student loan debt issues.
  • Space Is Limited and Registration Is Required. Apply online anytime: www.legalservicesmiami.org*; Apply by phone: (305) 576-0080

Posted May 12, 2022

• Affordable Connectivity Program* Stay Connected! The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program that helps many low income households pay for broadband service and internet connected devices. You are likely eligible if your household’s income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line, or if you or someone you live with currently receives a government benefit like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.  If your household is eligible, you could receive:
  • Up to a $30/month discount on your internet service
  • Up to a $75/month discount if your household is on qualifying Tribal lands
  • A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50)
  • A low cost service plan that may be fully covered through the ACP

Posted May 5, 2022

• 2022 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines Released for Ryan White Program Subrecipients
  • Introductory Letter from Miami-Dade County Office of Management and Budget Grants Coordination/Ryan White Program
  • Federal Poverty Guidelines table
  • Ryan White Program Service Descriptions webpage*

Posted March 28, 2022

• Hepatitis A Update, March 21, 2022 Florida Department of Health statement: Florida is observing ongoing transmission of hepatitis A virus (HAV) among certain populations in communities in Florida. Between October 1, 2021 and March 19, 2022, 103 hepatitis A cases were reported across 20 counties. Of these new cases, 84 percent were reported in males and most of these individuals were not up to date on their hepatitis A vaccination or their vaccine status was unknown.

Posted March 25, 2022

• HRSA Promotes Access to Gender Affirming Care and Treatment in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (HHS.gov blogpost)* Press release about the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) promoting access to gender affirming care and treatment in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.
  • Dear Colleagues Letter*

Posted March 17, 2022

• The Bureau of Communicable Diseases is pleased to announce the creation of the new Viral Hepatitis and Outbreak Response Section (VHORS) thus elevating viral hepatitis and outbreak response activities within the Bureau. Previously, viral hepatitis (Hep B and Hep C) prevention and surveillance were part of the Bureau’s STD Section. Click here for details and key contacts.

Posted March 14, 2022

• HIV Care Access During the COVID-19 Pandemic as Perceived by Racial/Ethnic Minority Groups Served by the Ryan White Program, Miami-Dade County, Florida, Mary Jo Trepka, MD, MSPH, etal.  The Ryan White Program (RWP) in Miami-Dade County, Florida made several modifications to keep HIV care accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanding telehealth services, increasing access to HIV medications, and waiving required lab tests for service recertification. We assessed ease of access to medical providers, medical case managers, and antiretroviral medications during the COVID-19 Pandemic among 298 Non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and Haitian people with HIV (PWH) served by the RWP Part A, Miami-Dade County, Florida using a telephone-administered survey between October 2020 and January 2021. Overall, most clients reported similar or better access compared to before the Pandemic. Use of videocalls to communicate with HIV medical providers varied by race/ethnicity: Hispanics (49.6%), Non-Hispanic Blacks (37.7%), and Haitian clients (16.0%). Results suggest the modifications helped maintain access to care during an unprecedented health crisis. Permanently adopting many of these modifications should be considered to continue to facilitate access to care.

Posted March 10, 2022

• Tax Preparation Assistance
  • IRS Taxpayer Assistance* Centers open on special Saturdays for face-to-face help
  • United Way* Free expert tax preparation

Posted February 16, 2022

• HRSA Recognizes National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day During Black History Month (HIV.gov)* Over the past 10 years, the RWHAP has made important progress in reducing health disparities among people with HIV. In 2020, a record-high 86.7% of Black/African American clients receiving care through the RWHAP were virally suppressed. This means they have an undetectable viral load and effectively no risk of sexually transmitting the virus to an HIV-negative partner. . .

Posted February 3, 2022

• Status Neutral Approach Resources
  • Redefining Prevention and Care: A Status-Neutral Approach to HIV (Open Forum Infectious Diseases) Julie E. Myers, etal.
  • White Paper: A Status Neutral Approach: Achieving Together to End the HIV Epidemic

Posted January 25, 2022

• ONAP Listening Session on HIV Criminalization* (HIV.gov)  On Tuesday, January 25, 2022, the White House’s Office of National AIDS Policy (ONAP) convened a virtual listening session on HIV criminalization laws. The National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) calls for repeal and reform of state HIV criminalization laws as a strategy to reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination and the complex barriers they pose for people with or who experience risk for HIV.

Posted January 4, 2022

• Statement—NIH Celebrates FDA Approval of Long-Acting Injectable Drug for HIV Prevention* (Cross-posted from NIAID Newsroom) The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced its first approval of a long-acting HIV prevention medication. Developed by ViiV Healthcare, the medicine is long-acting cabotegravir injected once every two months. FDA has approved the medicine for use by adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kilograms who are at risk of sexually acquiring HIV. This milestone marks a vital expansion of biomedical HIV prevention options available to people in the United States . . .

Posted December 22, 2021

Posted December 30, 2020

• New Eyes for the Needy (new-eyes.org)* ~ Free and reduced Priced Prescription Eyeglasses. New Eyes transforms the lives of children and adults facing financial hardship across the United States through the simple, yet critical, tool of eyeglasses.

• Get Free or Low-Cost Eye Care | National Eye Institute (nih.gov)* ~ Programs that offer free or low-cost eye care. These programs offer free or low-cost eye care. Keep in mind that you’ll need to apply to get help from these programs — and many programs have specific requirements, like having a low income or a higher risk of certain eye diseases. Most of these programs provide services across the United States, but your area may have local organizations and services that can help, too.

• How to Find a Free Eye Exam | NVISION Eye Centers (nvisioncenters.com)* ~ How to Find a Free Eye Exam: A Guide. If you lack vision insurance to cover the cost of a complete eye test or you can’t afford to pay out of your pocket, multiple agencies and organizations now make vision care much more accessible by offering free or low-cost eye scan options. Various community organizations and public health programs offer vision help to people in need, including those in low-income brackets, children, the disabled, and senior citizens.

• EyeCare America – American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)* Preserving sight for over 35 years.
  • EyeCare America, one of the country’s leading public service programs, provides eye care through our volunteer ophthalmologists. Since 1985, we have helped more than 2.2 million seniors and those at increased risk of glaucoma access eyecare and resources. Ninety percent of the care provided is at no out-of-pocket cost to the patient.
  • Información de Asistencia Financiera ~ The American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeCare America® Program (La Fundación de la Academia de Oftalmología en los EE.UU.) EyeCare America brinda atención oftalmológica a los ciudadanos estadounidenses y residentes legales a través de oftalmólogos voluntarios, a menudo sin costo de desembolso para aquellos que califican. Visite AAO.org/EyeCareAmerica para averiguar si usted o alguien que usted conoce califica para el cuidado del ojo. Más del 90 por ciento de la atención que se brinda a los pacientes de EyeCare America no se paga de bolsillo.

• Eyes of Hope (vspvision.com)* Empowering Human Potential Through Sight^™ We believe that eye care is essential, yet 1.1 billion people around the world live with vision impairment and can’t get the care they need. VSP Vision Eyes of Hope addresses barriers of income, distance, and disaster to provide equitable access to eye care and eyewear where it’s needed most. To date, we’ve provided access to no-cost vision care for more than 3.8 million people in need.

EHE Health Tec at The Village South!  If a client does not have a device to participate in the program one will be provide by The Village South to be returned at the end of treatment. To be eligible for the program the client must have an HIV diagnoses. No insurance is need for the client to be enrolled into the program. To make a referral please send contact and demographic information to Admissions Director Israel Gonzales at [email protected].  Services:

• • Substance Abuse Treatment
  • Individual Therapy
  • Case Management
  • Peer Services
  • Telehealth Sessions Offered (tablet or cell phone provided, if needed)
  • Urinalysis & Alcohol Test Weekly (via In-Home/On-Site)

Ryan White Program Subrecipients Community Health of South Florida – Optometry (limited services); Public Health Trust – Ophthalmology/Optometry; University of Miami -Ophthalmology/Optometry (limited services)

Borinquen Medical Centers will soon be opening a Dental site in North Miami, at 12601 NE 7th Avenue, North Miami, FL 33161. Services include: Cleanings, Tooth Colored Fillings, Extractions, Root Canals, Crowns, Dentures, Emergency Services. Most insurance accepted. For uninsured, discount rates available. Dr. Michelle Soheil, Dental Director, (305) 576-6611.

Resources for Dental Services for Low-Income Individuals and Families: Florida Department of Health Dental Clinic Community Smiles Dental Health Clinic

Miami-Dade County* Miami-Dade County COVID-19 Assistance Programs: Financial Assistance, Housing Assistance, Food Assistance, Employment Assistance, Business Assistance, and Senior Assistance.

Extended Hours at CAN Community Health: Click for details on dates and times of extended hours at the Miami Gardens and South beach locations.

MyACCESS.myflfamilies.com* Floridians who get food, cash or health care assistance through the government now need to navigate a new website. The Florida Department of Children and Families is launching a new “My Access Portal” for assistance with SNAP, TANF and Medicaid programs. The agency says the new platform is more modern and user-friendly, works better on mobile devices, streamlines document uploading, and should make getting government assistance faster.

Florida’s Poison Control Centers* Toll-free hotline: 1 (800) 222-1222.  Florida Poison Information Center – Miami: Jackson Memorial Hospital; University of Miami Miller School of Medicine; Highland Professional Building, 1801 NW 9th Avenue, 1st Floor, Miami, FL 33136.

Florida Department of Health* What you need to know now about COVID-19 in Florida.

Florida Department of Children and Families*

Tobacco Free Florida* Quitting tobacco isn’t easy, and there are many ways to go about it. But whether you quit on your own or with a little extra help, we’re here to help you on your quit journey and help you choose the right way for you.

Social Security* Print the factsheet: How to Qualify for Social Security Disability With HIV/AIDS If you have a medical condition, such as HIV or AIDS, that keeps you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability* benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two disability programs that provide monthly benefits to those who are disabled or have a serious and can no longer work full time. The SSA uses a medical guide, which is called the Blue Book*, to determine eligibility. The Blue Book has a listing that applies to HIV/AIDS. To be approve with that listing, you must meet the specific criteria.

Optum Pharmacy The only nationally certified pharmacy with a dedicated HIV account management team. Optum provides: American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVP)-certified pharmacists; A specially trained clinical HIV team; Financial assistance specialists that will exhaust all efforts to get funding; Multilingual capabilities; Prior authorization and appeals team; Clinical management program and consistent patient follow up to promote optimal outcomes.  Click here for the Optum Pharmacy website*.

COVID-19

• Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Coronavirus FAQ Webpage*
• HRSA’s Coronavirus Webpage*
• COVID-19 Resources for People with HIV from HIV.gov*
• Coronavirus.gov*

Disaster Supply Kit Checklist

How to prepare for what happens after a hurricane

For more information, contact George N. Gibson, Certified Crisis Interventionist and Information & Referral (I & R) Specialist, (786) 488-2108 or [email protected].

Educational Information On Health & Human Services

• Every 2nd Thursday of the Month, 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM, Main Library (In the Foyer Area), 101 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33130 (Updated  April 28, 2023)
• Every 4th Thursday of the Month, 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM, South Dade Regional Library, 10750 SW 211th Street, Cutler Bay, Florida 33189 (Updated  April 28, 2023)

For more information, contact George N. Gibson, Certified Crisis Interventionist and Information & Referral (I & R) Specialist, (786) 488-2108 or [email protected].

Every 3rd Wednesday of the Month: Good Grief! Bereavement Support Group  Grieving the loss of loved ones is the beginning part of the healing process. Bereavement Support Group. Helping grieving families, significant others, and friends to cope with the loss of a loved one; Are you seeking answers to unresolved questions? Spiritual and Emotional Support in a nonjudgmental manner; Guest speakers, such as psychologists and thanatologists will be invited to speak at times. (Updated  April 28, 2023)

Grief Awareness Calendar 

For more information, contact George N. Gibson, Certified Crisis Interventionist and Information & Referral (I & R) Specialist, (786) 488-2108 or [email protected].

HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’S), Tuberculosis (TB), And Sexual Minority Issues (GLBTQ+ Issues) Faith-Based Calendar Set Free Ministries through Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith Church, Inc. Flashlight of Hope, Inc. Elder George N. Gibson, Founder, Pastor, Chaplain, and CEO: (786) 488-2108 (Mobile) / E-Mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. (Updated  April 28, 2023)

Positive People Network, Inc.*

STS S.W.A.T. at Pridelines. Every 4th Saturday – Sisters with a Testimony Stop the Silence Ambassadors Speakers Group – supported by ViiV Healthcare. Paid opportunity! Click here for details.

Call (305) 521-7966 for more information.

Connect with Positive People Network via Social Media

• Facebook:@positivepeoplenetwork1
• Twitter @pozpeoplenet
• Instagram @pozpeoplenetwork
• YouTube https://tinyurl.com/y8mjpkoa

Positive People Network, Inc.*

PPN support group for men! Thursdays via Zoom. “I got you, brother!”

Call Harold at (786) 488-1153.

Connect with Positive People Network via Social Media

• Facebook:@positivepeoplenetwork1
• Twitter @pozpeoplenet
• Instagram @pozpeoplenetwork
• YouTube https://tinyurl.com/y8mjpkoa

Positive People Network, Inc.*

PPN support group for women! Tuesdays via Zoom. “I am my sister’s keeper.”

Contact Alecia at [email protected] or (305) 494-4538.

Connect with Positive People Network via Social Media

• Facebook:@positivepeoplenetwork1
• Twitter @pozpeoplenet
• Instagram @pozpeoplenetwork
• YouTube https://tinyurl.com/y8mjpkoa

Support group for bilingual women* meets on the last Friday of Each month 12-1:30 PM.

Together We Thrive – Gay & Bi Men’s Roundtable  A group for gay and bisexual men living with HIV who are seeking community, education, and support. This is a safe, affirming, and confidential space intended to help members thrive. Weekly meetings are being held in person on Tue. from 6:30-8 PM

Support group for the Latino transgender community in Spanish. This group takes place the last Thursday of every month.

To register and attend, participants must call Jessica Montejo at (786) 275-4364; (786) 334-6992; or (305) 603-9876.

Support Group for LGBTQI community in Spanish. This group takes place the third Thursday of every month.

To register and attend, participants must call Jessica Montejo at (786) 275-4364; (786) 334-6992; or (305) 603-9876.

Support Group for victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Spanish. This group takes place the second Thursday of every month.

To register and attend, participants must call Jessica Montejo at (786) 275-4364; (786) 334-6992; or (305) 603-9876.

Tobacco Free Florida’s Group Quit Sessions (in-person or virtual) now offer participants $50 – $125 in gift cards for their attendance. Free, expert-led in-person or virtual sessions for all Florida residents, regardless of insurance status. Upon class completion, participants are eligible to receive free nicotine replacement therapy such as gum, patches or lozenges.

We are looking for Latino gay, bisexual, and other MSM for this role.

This is a great opportunity to make sure the Latino MSM community is represented in our research projects!

The role is compensated $50 monthly for your input, and if interested, please reach out to Brandon Quiroz ([email protected]) or Yareli Sosa ([email protected]) for more information.

Los folletos de referencia rápida pueden encontrarse en la página web “Recursos de Planning CHATT en español”* disponible en TargetHIV.org, y dentro de los diez módulos de la Guía de Capacitación para los consejos de planificación/órganos de planificación de la Parte A del Programa Ryan White contra el VIH/SIDA* (RWHAP, por sus siglas en inglés).

La telesalud —a veces llamada telemedicina— le permite ver al profesional de la salud sin tener que ir al consultorio. Puede asistir a una teleconsulta en línea usando una computadora, una tableta o un teléfono inteligente

Enroll Today! One of the many benefits of enrolling in the program are the baby showers hosted by TOPWA!

TOPWA Borinquen Medical Centers Facebook Page* We are all currently facing challenging times with the current pandemic. In efforts to still provide our TOPWA services to patients in need, we invite you to please share our current Facebook page to patients that can benefit from it. On the page, we are sharing information on local events, food drives, and COVID-19. In addition we will be having a virtual baby shower and raffling baby items. We want this Facebook page to bring new and existing moms a shine of hope during this pandemic.

Florida Department of Health TOPWA Page*

The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports 24 hours a day and 7 days a week of known or suspected child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and reports of known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. If you suspect or know of a child or adult that is in immediate danger, call 911

Violence Prevention: Violence is an urgent public health problem. From infants to the elderly, it affects people in all stages of life and can lead to a lifetime of physical, emotional, and economic problems. CDC is committed to preventing violence so that everyone can be safe and healthy.

Local HIV community advocate, Miami-Dade HIV/AIDS Partnership committee member, and “I am a Work of ART” campaign creative partner shares her journey with HIV.gov.

In solidarity with the theme of the 2023 US Conference on HIV/AIDS, “A Love Letter to Black Women,” the HHS Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP), led by its Director, Kaye Hayes, MPA, is creating a nationally coordinated, community-driven initiative to improve the lives and well-being of Black women of both cis and trans experience in America and further explore ending the scourge of the HIV epidemic among the community. HIV.gov spoke with the initiative’s co-leads to better understand its impetus and to discuss a recent community meeting in Houston, Texas to enhance the collective ability to address Black women’s unique needs in the HIV response. . .

It is necessary for Miami-Dade County Health Department to be notified as soon as a pregnant woman’s HIV status is determined in order to ensure and help facilitate the coordination of her care. It is understood that your facility may be able to provide care to HIV infected women during pregnancy. However, it is the suggestion of the Department of Health and Miami-Dade County Health Department that all pregnant women in Miami-Dade County that are diagnosed with HIV receive specialized care through the UM PRIMM clinic (Perinatal Immunology) located at 1490 NW 10 Street, Miami, FL.  There is also a suggestion for the HIV positive pregnant woman to receive TOPWA services (Targeted Outreach for Pregnant Women Act) through Borinquen Health Care.

Click here for details on Notifying the Health Department of HIV Positive Pregnant Women

Click here for the High Risk Pregnancy Notification Form

Click here* for the FDOH TOPWA webpage

Click here* for AIDSinfo Updated Fact Sheet: Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV

Building Equity, Ethics, and Education on Breastfeeding and HIV

The Well Project* is a non-profit organization whose mission is to change the course of the HIV/AIDS pandemic through a unique and comprehensive focus on women and girls across the gender spectrum. The Well Project envisions a world in which women living with or vulnerable to HIV have the information, support, and tools they need to advocate for their health and well-being, and live free from stigma.

We invite you to participate in this brief survey to help us understand your current knowledge, awareness, and attitudes towards breast/chestfeeding and HIV. This survey is intended for all members of the HIV community including people living with HIV and their allies, healthcare providers and other professionals who work with people living with HIV. All survey responses are anonymous and confidential.

Thank you very much in advance for taking our survey and helping us better address the needs of our community!

Women Like Us – Aging Positively focuses on increasing overall health and wellness among women aging with HIV by increasing social connectedness and access to relevant health information. This program aims to expand access to health information that centers the needs of women aging with HIV, improve patient-provider interactions and relationships, and decrease isolation. It also works to provide opportunities for women to connect with each other through The Well Project’s network, build health literacy, and expand leadership and capacity building among women aging with HIV.  Follow on Facebook*

Though we have made tremendous progress in protecting the health of women and girls from HIV, they are still significantly impacted and continue to face challenges and barriers in accessing care, and disparities in outcomes . . .

CDC’s Let’s Stop HIV Together (Together)* campaign recently launched a new initiative called #ShesWell*, which is focused on increasing awareness about Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)* among women, building capacity among clinicians to prescribe PrEP to women who can benefit from it, and ultimately increasing PrEP use among women.  The #ShesWell initiative initially launched in June 2021 in four Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. (EHE)* jurisdictions: Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL; Orlando, FL; Fort Worth, TX; and Columbus, OH.

The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports 24 hours a day and 7 days a week of known or suspected child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and reports of known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. If you suspect or know of a child or adult that is in immediate danger, call 911

Find benefits and services in the state of Florida for children, families, seniors and people with disabilities.

FEMA Resources for Helping Children Cope After a Disaster (English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole)

Featuring; Statistics about young people in the US, who are living with HIV and AIDS; HIV College Students’ Challenges and Rights; Scholarships and grants for students with HIV and AIDS; List of HIV Resources, Organizations & Advocacy Groups; and more.

All Head Start / Early Head Start centers are open and providing in-person and virtual services to meet the needs of individual families.

• Head Start and Early Head Start services are provided at no cost to families who qualify.
• Early Head Start serves children from birth until they are 3 years old, as well as expectant mothers.
• Head Start serves children who are 3 to 4 years old by September 1, or no older than 5 years old after September 1.
• Head Start services are for families living in Miami-Dade County only.