CareSouth Carolina unites to commemorate World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first-ever global health day.

Since 1988, December 1st has been observed as World AIDS Day. The purpose of its' observance is to raise awareness of the AIDS epidemic due to the spread of HIV infection and to honor the lives of those who have died from the disease. Individuals and organizations around the world often observe World AIDS Day by sharing education on AIDS prevention and control and by wearing the infamous red ribbon.

Globally, there are an estimated 38 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS-related illnesses, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in the UK over 4,139 people are diagnosed with HIV, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education.

CareSouth Carolina, through Care Innovations, provides comprehensive HIV/AIDS primary health care for individuals in Chesterfield, Darlington, Lee and Marlboro Counties. These services are made possible through a federal Ryan White Part C grant. Patients can have a “one-stop” shop experience at CareSouth Carolina. The level of services are exemplary, compassionate and catered to the individual and his or her needs.

One of the major focuses for Care Innovations is to close the gap by providing quality care and information to those in the community on treatment and knowing their status. There are currently 19 million people who are HIV positive who are unaware of their status.

Here’s a look at the services CareSouth Carolina provides through Care Innovations:

• Medical — Quality HIV/AIDS primary health care begins with ready access in the local community. Not only that, CareSouth Carolina physicians and clinicians well-versed in the proper protocols deliver that care compassionately and confidentially in medical offices that provide services to more than just HIV/AIDS clients.
• Pre- and Post-test Counseling – We offer voluntary testing and counseling and maintain confidential records. We use an interactive model that focuses on a personalized HIV risk-reduction plan.
• Medications — Access to proper medications are essential to HIV/AIDS clients. We not only provide for the proper regiment but also access to those without the financial ability to obtain needed medications.
• Care Management — At its core, our HIV/AIDS care is founded on a chronic care management model. An AIDS Certified Registered Nurse provides care management for clients, ensuring they have a treatment plan and receive seamless services and the skills and opportunities that are required to manage their condition.
• Behavioral Health — One-on-one and group mental health counseling services are provided by counselors who understand the needs of HIV/AIDS clients. Counselors assist with everything from substance abuse to depression, and they provide the opportunity for clients to experience positive lifestyle changes. Like the medical care, these services are provided in an integrated primary care setting that alleviates the stigma associated with behavioral health services.
• Dental — Dental services, a crucial component of HIV/AIDS care, is provided through access and payment for limited services.
• Transportation — We understand that the lack of transportation is sometimes a barrier to needed care, so we provide limited transportation services for clients.
• Outreach — We also understand that persons who are struggling with HIV/AIDS do not live in the medical office – they are out in our communities living day-to-day lives. We provide staff and resources to educate, assess and facilitate the use of services for those out in the community.
• Support Groups — Programs for men, women, and children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS are crucial for clients and their families. The programs focus on psycho-social issues impacted by the disease. We also offer educational support groups.
• Referrals — We make certain that needed services are received by clients who need them through a referral network that includes everything from specialist care to hospitalization.

Care Innovations is located at 1268 South Fourth Street, Hartsville, SC 29550 and can be reached at 843 339-5527.