24 Hour Support Hotline: 2-1-1 or 1-850-617-6333
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-451-2229
Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline: 1-800-352-2437
Family Health Line: 1-800-451-2229
Help Me Grow: 2-1-1 or 1-850-617-6333

FLORIDA HIV/AIDS HOTLINE

1-800-FLA-AIDS (352-2437) English
1-800-545-SIDA (545-7432) Spanish
1-800-AIDS-101 (243-7101) Haitian Creole
1-888-503-7118 TDD/TTY (Hearing/Speech Impaired)

Text FLHIV or flhiv to 898211 – Texting is available when the Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline is open.

HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday thru Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Sunday: 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM

ABOUT The Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline is the statewide resource for HIV/AIDS-related information,community referrals and supportive telephone counseling. Callers receive information on HIV and AIDS related issues including locations of testing sites and program services in Florida. Please explore our web site or e-mail a counselor if you need any additional information. Inquires will be researched and a response will be sent within two business days.

For additional HIV/AIDS information visit Florida’s Know Your HIV Status web site.
Or Florida Department of Health HIV/AIDS Section, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection, Bureau of Communicable Diseases 
Or Search the Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline Statewide Database

ADAP HIV/AIDS 850-245-4422

Application to Receive Allowable Services for HIV/AIDS Patient Care Programs • AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) • ADAP Premium Plus (Insurance Services) • State HousingOpportunitiesfor Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) • Ryan White Part B Consortia and other HIV/AIDS Programs
DOWNLOAD APPLICATION
[email protected]

HIV/AIDS Section
4052 Bald Cypress Way
Tallahassee, FL 32399

AIDS DRUGS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Our Mission: To Provide Life Saving medications, Disease management Training and information to our Clients in a Cost Effective Way.

If you are HIV positive and:

• In need of HIV/AIDS prescriptions
• Have income at 400% or less of the Federal Poverty Level
• Are uninsured or do not have adequate prescription coverage
• Are not confined to a hospital, nursing home, hospice, or correctional facility

ADAP Can Help!
In order to enroll in Florida ADAP Program, follow these steps

• Apply for Eligibility DOWNLOAD APPLICATION
• Schedule your ADAP appointment
• Enroll in ADAP
• Get your prescriptions filled– Learn more about the prescriptions we provide, Please visit our Formulary Page. Our formulary includes treatment for HIV/AIDS and opportunistic infections.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT STDS?

If you live in Florida and you have questions or concerns about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), you can call the Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline at 1-800-FLA-AIDS or send a trained counselor an email. If you live outside of Florida, visit The Body to find an AIDS hotline near you.

LINKAGE

The linkage program assists persons living with HIV that are aware of their status, persons who have newly tested HIV positive, and persons who are not currently accessing HIV/AIDS care. The program goal is to increase the number of people who know their HIV status, to increase the number of HIV positive persons linked to care, to increase the number of people retained in care and on antiretroviral therapy, and maintaining a suppressed viral load.

The Linkage Team has worked to redefine the culture of those who serve HIV-infected persons, to enlist everyone in the spectrum of services, (case managers, medical providers, prevention providers, etc.) to link those with HIV to medical care. We invite community providers, consumers, patient care advocates, clinical staff and others to be a part of the Linkage Team as we assist HIV-infected individuals to find a medical home.

• Perinatal: Women and Children (TOPWA)
• Corrections Initiatives
• (MAI) Minority AIDS Initiative

PEER NAVIGATOR PROGRAM

Peer Program Map

Peer navigation is the process of patient navigation and delivery of services to HIV-positive persons in order to assist in client access to the medical, social and supportive services needed to maintain his or her health. Peer navigators are integral to medication and treatment adherence and provide specialized services in a professional environment. Peer navigators work to encourage engagement into care and support medication and treatment adherence by providing education, resources, and mentorship. The role of the peer navigator is to provide a bridge between providers and clients that facilitates the medical and psychosocial care of the client. A peer navigator is someone who has accepted his/her HIV diagnosis, has learned to live with the disease and manage its daily challenges. The peer navigator serves as a role model who provides reliable information, steers clients in the proper direction to meet their care needs, and helps them overcome barriers to remaining in care. Peers provide persons living with HIV (PLWH)/AIDS with guidance and advocacy beyond that which can be provided by case managers and clinicians, through experienced guidance and culturally sensitive, plain language messages. The programs aim is to improve health outcomes for newly diagnosed clients, those transferring their HIV care to another clinic or organization, or those returning to care. This is a voluntary program and clients must agree to receive peer support services prior to the start of services.

There are currently 13 Peer Navigator programs funded by the HIV Section. The programs are located in Escambia, Okaloosa, Leon, Duval, Alachua, Orange, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties.

• Provide linkage to care to patients in a timely and coordinated manner and maintain medical stability and suppressed viral load
• Provide clients with healthcare navigation and social services
• Work together with clients to support treatment (medication) adherence
• Assist patients with building skills and knowledge needed to achieve and maintain a stable health status

Links to web resources related to Peer Navigation Program
https://careacttarget.org/category/topics/peer-programs
https://careacttarget.org/library/building-blocks-peer-program-success-toolkit-developing-hiv-peer-programs
https://effectiveinterventions.cdc.gov/en/HighImpactPrevention/BiomedicalInterventions/HIVNavigationServices.aspx
http://cahpp.org/project/peer-center/

PATIENT CARE PEER PROGRAMS

Interventions for HIV-Positive Individuals
A major objective of the HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis Section is to promote behavioral risk reduction for those living with HIV/AIDS. The purpose of HIV prevention behavioral interventions for those living with HIV/AIDS is to prevent the transmission of HIV to uninfected individuals and provide support to persons living with this disease. Another objective is to incorporate HIV prevention into both private and public medical settings.

Interventions for High-Risk Negatives 
Prevention of HIV infection among high-risk negative persons is a priority for the Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis Section. The purpose of HIV prevention behavioral interventions for high-risk negatives it to reduce risk behaviors that increase the likelihood that someone will become infected with HIV. High-risk behaviors include having unprotected sex and sharing needles used to inject drugs of any kind.

• Approved Educational Materials Database
• Diffusion of Effective Behavioral Interventions (DEBI) Website
• Updated Compendium of Evidence-Based HIV Prevention Interventions
• Guidelines for Traditional and Internet-based HIV Prevention Outreach
• PrEP : Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

HIV/AIDS STATISTICS

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HIV/AIDS SECTION

Know Your HIV Status

Keeping in mind the two separate events (becoming HIV-infected vs. actually developing AIDS) can help you to remember that there are also two separate time periods when someone may show symptoms related to HIV-infection.

CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL & PREVENTION (CDC)

HIV/AIDS Basic Statistics

Easy-to-read summary reports based on the CDC semiannual HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report (the comprehensive report is also available).

UNAIDS: JOINT UNITED NATIONS PROGRAMME ON HIV/AIDS

AIDS Epidemic Update

Global HIV/AIDS statistics and epidemiological fact sheets by country.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FLORIDIANS WITH HIV/AIDS

FLORIDA’S AIDS DRUG ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (ADAP)

ADAP is intended to help HIV positive people stay healthy by assisting with the purchase of HIV prescription medications. ADAP provides HIV drug treatments for people who are uninsured or do not have adequate prescription coverage.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADAP IN FLORIDA?

To be eligible you must:
Be HIV positive with proof from a physician,
Have an income less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines,
Be uninsured or without adequate prescription coverage, and
Not confined to a hospital, nursing home, hospice, or correctional facility.

WHO IS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR ADAP IN FLORIDA?

Persons: in institutional care (i.e. hospital or correctional facility),
with health insurance that covers pharmaceuticals or Medicaid,
with an income above 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and
Persons with assets over $25,000, excluding a home and car.

HOW DO I ENROLL IN ADAP?

Visit your local County Health Department and complete the application. Unfortunately, due to limited funding, not everyone who applies for services and is otherwise eligible will receive services. Should ADAP services be unavailable, other possible funding options can be sought with the assistance of a case manager or health department staff.

WHAT DO I NEED?

At time of enrollment you need to have in hand: Your HIV positive documentation, prescriptions from a Florida licensed doctor, current (less than four months) viral load and/or CD4 test results.

WHAT MEDICINES ARE COVERED BY ADAP?

The Florida Department of Health HIV/AIDS Section, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection, Bureau of Communicable Diseases maintains a listing current ADAP medicines.

IMPORTANT

If you do not qualify for ADAP, you may still qualify for Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) and Patient Assistance Programs (PAP). There are over 180 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies that provide free or low-cost drugs for individuals who cannot afford to pay for them.

Each program has specific eligibility criteria and coverage. You can find further information at:
1-888-477-2669
NeedyMeds
Partnership for Prescription Assistance
http://www.positivelyaware.com/sites/default/files/co-pay chart 1 – HIV meds_0.pdfPositivelyaware.com

FLORIDA’S HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH AIDS (HOPWA)WHAT IS HOPWA?

The Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS, known as HOPWA, is funded through a grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide states and designated eligible metropolitan areas with resources and incentives for meeting the housing needs of persons with HIV and AIDS. The Department of Health, which contracts with lead agency organizations at the local level, administers Florida’s HOPWA program.

WHAT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED?

The state HOPWA program provides temporary housing assistance to eligible individuals. Transitional housing, assistance with rent, mortgage, utilities and supportive services (such as case management) services are provided to income eligible individuals with documented HIV disease and their families. Services not approved include: payments which exceed actual costs, payments made directly to clients, cash payments of any kind (including checks made out to cash), property taxes that are not included in mortgage payments, long distance telephone charges, fines and penalties, down payment or closing costs on a home. HOPWA is not available in every county. To learn more, contact the HOPWA lead agencies.

AIDS FRAUD

The HIV/AIDS Hotline has received reports about fraudulent activities associated with HIV/AIDS. If you know or suspect a business or person is selling or advertising fraudulent health products or services you can help stop them and protect others by reporting it. You can report health fraud in Florida by calling the Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline at 1-800-FLA-AIDS.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AIDS FRAUD

Health care fraud in general is a serious problem. No part of the health care system is free of fraud – not supplies, hospitals, insurers, home health care or even physicians. Specifically, AIDS fraud is the promotion of an AIDS-related health product, treatment, or service known to be false or labeled with unsupported claims. Fraud can include, but is not limited to: treatment, nutrition, mechanical devices, burial fees, drugs and supplements. Victims of fraud may include partners, family and friends as well.

AIDS FRAUD IS EXPENSIVE

Fraudulent products and services can be expensive; they waste your money, and health insurance does not pay for them. Be wary of any AIDS product, treatment, or service that seems to have an unusually high cost, or carries an “extra charge” just because someone has HIV/AIDS.

AIDS FRAUD IS DANGEROUS

If you use products or services that don’t work you may delay getting proper medical care. Your illness may also get worse. There are legitimate treatments that extend life and improve the quality of life in persons with AIDS or HIV infection, even though there is no cure for HIV/AIDS. Fraudulent products are not scientifically tested. If you use fraudulent products, they may hurt you. You could even die.

YOU CAN HELP STOP AIDS FRAUD

Be suspicious of statements that promise quick and painless cures for AIDS, or those treatments that are “special”, “foreign”, “secret”, “miraculous”, “ancient” or “easy”. Ask questions of the promoters regarding the product’s approval and side effects. Request all printed material on the product and its promoters.

AIDS FRAUD-FIGHTING RESOURCES

The following resources provide reliable information about HIV/AIDS treatments:
HIV and AIDS Activities
New Mexico AIDS InfoNet
QuackWatch

HOW TO RECOGNIZE QUACKS AND FRAUDS

• The practitioner states that he/she is a medical professional but has a name that is followed by titles, degrees, or credentials which are unknown or unidentifiable.
• The practitioner claims that most or all Americans are poorly nourished.
• Claims are made that medical treatments are dangerous.
• Supplements are recommended for everyone.
• Disclaimers are couched in pseudo-medical jargon.
• Product is marketed with testimonials and anecdotes. Empirical (scientific) data is missing, dated, or conducted in a clinic or setting with no known reputation.
• The practitioner claims that he/she, the product, or both are being suppressed by the government.
• The product is marketed with terms such as, “ancient”, “newly emerging research”, “mystical”, or “secret.”
• The product is marketed to treat most every illness and condition under the sun.
• Product is “experimental”, yet you will be charged to purchase or use it.

PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER: A COMPANION GUIDE FOR IMPROVING NUTRITION AND FOOD SAFETY FOR PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS

Many health fraud scammers use diet and nutrition as a means of hooking the public. For people with HIV and cancer, these scams can be ruinous for both the person’s health and wallet. The Florida Health Fraud Coalition has published the “Putting the Pieces Together” nutrition guide book as a means of foiling the hawkers of fraudulent products and treatments, and of informing clients and practitioners about the special dietary needs of the HIV infected and people with wasting syndrome.

This is the 4th Edition of Putting the Pieces Together. It was compiled and edited by theFlorida Health Fraud Coalition. The project was originally conceived by the WIC and Nutrition Unit of the Pasco County Health Department. It is funded by the FDA and by the Florida Department of Health HIV/AIDS Section, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection, Bureau of Communicable Diseases.

PATIENT CARE

*Note: This page contains materials in the Portable Document Format (PDF). The free Adobe Reader may be required to view these files.

CAREWare Supporting Documents

Rule 64D-4 is the “Eligibility Requirements for the HIV/AIDS Patient Care Programs”. The information below is from the rule workshops conducted February 17, 2014 through March 4, 2014 and included both PowerPoint presentations and overall minutes from the workshops.

• Rule Workshop Presentation
• Rule Workshop Presentation (ADAP)
• Rule Workshop Minutes

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

2013 Florida HIV/AIDS Anonymous Needs Survey – Statewide Analysis
2013 Florida HIV Needs Survey – Statewide Analysis Cross-Gender
Community Programs
Eligibility Information
State Housing Opportunity for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)
Case Management
Core Eligibility Training
Patient Care (211)
Patient Care Program Notices

The HIV Prevention Program launched its new statewide minority media campaign May 1, 2017. The campaign theme is Protect Yourself. Components of the campaign include broadcast radio, digital/mobile advertising, out-of-home advertising (billboards, etc.), a new website, social media, and public outreach events. Check it out athttp://www.KnowYourHIVStatus.com

FLORIDA’S MINORITY HIV/AIDS INITIATIVES
HIV/AIDS AND HEPATITIS PROGRAM

More blacks in Florida are living with HIV or are already dead from AIDS than any other racial or ethnic group. In Florida, approximately 1 in 58 non-Hispanic black males and 1 in 83 non-Hispanic black females were living with a diagnosed case of HIV/AIDS. This compares with approximately 1 in 310 non-Hispanic white males, 1 in 1,625 non-Hispanic white females, 1 in 148 Hispanic males, and 1 in 553 Hispanic females. There are HIV/AIDS gaps between blacks and whites and gaps between Hispanics and whites, but the black-white gap is the widest by far. As a result, the Department of Health has redoubled its commitment and mobilized its resources to address the disproportionate impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on minority communities. Numerous innovative interventions, strategies and initiatives, such as those described in this document, reflect measured input from committed community members, legislators and public health officials. Some of the specified activities have already begun to produce results, while others show strong promise for benefits in the near and long term. With the persistence of disparities concerning HIV/AIDS among minorities, the department considers it an urgent priority to seek even further interventions to reverse this unacceptable trend.

Ongoing and/or Current Initiatives

MAN UP COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION MEETINGS

Community mobilization meetings were conducted in nearly every area in the state to encourage men to take responsibility for the consequences of their sexual actions. The mobilization meetings included more than just HIV/AIDS, it focused on other health, social, economic, and cultural issues. Man Up shop talks were held in barbershops across the state to encourage men to get tested for HIV, become more responsible and to value their overall health. Man Up mobilization meeting were held in Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Myers and Daytona Beach.

MAN UP: THE CRISIS OF HIV/AIDS AMONG FLORIDA’S MEN:

In Florida, 1 in 209 white men, compared to 1 in 44 black men and 1 in 117 Hispanic men are living with HIV/AIDS (reported cases). The Man Up report was created to mobilize men to eliminate their risk for acquiring and transmitting HIV/AIDS. “Man Up” is an urban term which means that men should fulfill their responsibilities as a man. The report also seeks to encourage men to “Man Up” and take responsibility for the consequences of their sexual actions and other HIV risk behaviors, for the benefit of themselves and their partners. The goal is to stimulate the development and implementation of community action plans to prevent the further spread of HIV/AIDS among Florida’s men and their partners.

SISTAS ORGANIZING TO SURVIVE (SOS):

Sistas Organizing to Survive (SOS) is a grassroots mobilization of black women in the fight against HIV and AIDS. In Florida, one in 68 non-Hispanic black women are known to be living with HIV/AIDS. This compares with approximately one in 1,281 non-Hispanic white women, and one in 472 Hispanic women. For over 15 years, HIV/AIDS has been the leading cause of death among black women aged 25-44 years in Florida. The Sistas Organizing to Survive movement aims to educate black women about the impact of HIV/AIDS and to develop an action plan that prevents the further spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases in Florida’s black communities. We are counting on the community to educate black women and encourage them to get tested.

SOS: SISTAS ORGANIZING TO SURVIVE CONFERENCE:

The Florida Department of Health hosted the first SOS: Sistas Organizing to Survive conference in Orlando, FL. Almost 600 consumers, health providers, and community leaders participated in the event. Over 300 women actively pledged to engage in a statewide education network that encourages black women to become participatory in their own health. Objectives of the SOS conference:

• Educate black women about HIV/AIDS and how other STDs, hepatitis and substance abuse increase their risk
• Empower black women to take charge of and control of their sexual health
• Connect black women to HIV/AIDS resources
• Offer tools to enable black women to educate others where they live, work, play and worship
• Encourage black women to take a pledge to get tested for HIV and to educate others where they live, work, play, and worship

Our goal is to test 100,000 black women each year by 2010.

LATINAS UNIDAS CONTRA EL SIDA (LUCES)

In September 2008, the Latina women group created a statewide community mobilization initiative entitled “LUCES. (Latinas Unidas Contra El SIDA) or Latinas united against AIDS.” LUCES is a community mobilization initiative that was created to heighten the awareness about HIV/AIDS and encourage Latina women to get tested for HIV. LUCES mission statement is to empower Latina women to understand and prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS and access services for infected Latinas in the State of Florida.

A six series DVD set was developed to share best practices and offer tools to enable Latina women to educate others about HIV/AIDS where they live, work, play, learn and worship. The resources in the DVD are presented through four main characters: the Wise Light – the Grandmother; Bright Light – the Mother; Radiant Light – the Daughter; and Brief Light – the Granddaughter. It is through these four characters we are able to provide HIV prevention messages and present them to Latina women in a culturally relevant manner.

The DVD set was distributed throughout the state along with other items to mobilize Latinas to prevent HIV/AIDS and encourage them to get tested for HIV. In addition, community mobilization meetings were held in every area of the state. Many of the participants felt that the LUCES DVD can help local agencies and community members raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS among Latina women.

ORGANIZING TO SURVIVE: THE HIV/AIDS CRISIS AMONG FLORIDA’S WOMEN:

Although this report was not written specifically for black and Latina women, the report seeks to mobilize women to confront and overcome their vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. To achieve this broad aim, an analysis of Florida’s HIV/AIDS data among women by race/ethnicity is presented, together with a realistic set of recommendations. The goal is to stimulate the development and implementation of community action plans to prevent the further spread of HIV/AIDS among women living in Florida. The objectives of this report are to:

• Raise awareness about the magnitude of HIV/AIDS among women in Florida’s communities.
• Strengthen women’s ability to take charge and control of their sexual health.
• Connect women to HIV/AIDS resources.
• Offer tools to enable women to educate others about HIV/AIDS and HIV prevention where they live, work, play, learn, and worship.
• Inform women about mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
• Increase the capacity of women to build effective responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in local communities.

FLORIDA’S FAITH-BASED INITIATIVE:

The Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program has renewed its commitment to assist faith-based organizations in addressing HIV/AIDS in the state of Florida. The HIV/AIDS program has been working with communities of faith since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Our long standing commitment with faith-based organizations has resulted in more HIV testing, education, and outreach throughout the state. We are seeking to enhance our existing faith initiative to enable us to redouble our commitment to work with faith-based organizations. Our faith-based initiative is not about a single faith; it is inclusive of all denominations. The goals of the faith initiative are to expand opportunities for faith-based organizations to strengthen their capacity to meet the HIV/AIDS needs of Floridians; and to mobilize congregations and communities to respond to the HIV/AIDS crisis regardless of race, ethnicity, or behavior.

THE AME CHURCH AND THE HIV/AIDS PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP:

The Eleventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and the Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program has signed a partnership agreement to foster a historic alliance to establish one AME Church in every county in Florida as an HIV test site or test location. This partnership of agreement outlines the Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program and the Eleventh Episcopal District of the AME Church commitment to work together to reduce HIV/AIDS among blacks.

THE GENERAL BAPTIST STATE CONVENTION OF FLORIDA:

The Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program has partnered with the General Baptist State Convention of Florida to foster a historic alliance to establish one HIV health ministry in every county in Florida. The Department of Health will partner with the General Baptist State Convention of Florida to expand opportunities to strengthen their capacity to meet the HIV/AIDS needs of their churches and their congregations. The General Baptist State Convention of Florida will identify one church in every county in the state to work with the department to establish an HIV health ministry. The goal of this partnership is to mobilize churches, congregations, and communities to respond to the HIV/AIDS crisis in Florida’s black communities. This partnership agreement outlines the General Baptist State Convention of Florida and the Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program commitment to work together to reduce HIV/AIDS among blacks.

SILENCE IS DEATH INITIATIVE:

The HIV/AIDS program produced a report entitled “Silence is Death: The Crisis of HIV/AIDS in Florida’s Black Communities. The report documents racial/ethnic disparities according to several persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) (reported cases) measures in the 20 Florida counties with a total of at least 600 PLWHA through 2005. The PLWHA data for the top 20 counties are presented in rank order so that the experience of each county can be put in perspective with the others, facilitating the targeting and prioritization of efforts to close the gaps.

The report was written to serve as a community mobilization tool to assist counties to break the silence by raising awareness about HIV/AIDS among blacks; encourage local governments and communities to expand and strengthen their responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic among blacks; encourage individuals to be tested for HIV/AIDS; increase access to HIV prevention and care services; reduce barriers to HIV testing, prevention and care by reducing HIV/AIDS stigma; and to stimulate the development of a plan to address the disproportionate impact that HIV/AIDS is having on black communities.

MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN (MSM) CONSULTATION:

The HIV/AIDS program hosted a MSM Consultation that included both black and Latino men. The consultation was in response to recent national and statewide HIV/AIDS data that continue to show the disproportionate impact that HIV/AIDS is having among black and Latino MSM. The purpose of this consultation is to allow a small group of black and Latino MSM discuss their perspectives on what needs to be done to address the increasing rates of HIV/AIDS in their communities. The meeting concluded with several outstanding recommendations.

WOMEN OF COLOR CONSULTATION:

The HIV/AIDS program hosted a Women of Color Consultation that included both black and Latina women. The consultation was in response to recent national and statewide HIV/AIDS data that continue to show the increasing HIV/AIDS rates among women of color. The purpose of this consultation is to allow a small group of black and Latina women discuss their perspectives on what needs to be done to address the increasing rates of HIV/AIDS in their communities. The meeting concluded with several outstanding recommendations.

MINORITY AIDS COORDINATORS:

Minority AIDS Coordinator positions were created by the 1999 legislature (House Bill 2125) within the Florida Department of Health. The goal of the minority AIDS coordinators is to facilitate statewide efforts to implement and coordinate HIV/AIDS prevention, early intervention and treatment programs for racial/ethnic minority communities. The primary responsibilities of these positions include providing or coordinating technical assistance to community-based organizations (CBOs) and providing consultation on community planning, treatment and care and prevention specifically as it relates to closing the racial/ethnic minority HIV/AIDS gap.

STATEWIDE MINORITY MEDIA CAMPAIGN:

On June 1, 2000, the HIV/AIDS program unveiled the HIV/AIDS Minority Media Campaign. The media awareness program entitled, “We Make The Change,” is aimed at increasing awareness about HIV/AIDS throughout Florida’s minority populations, including African American, Hispanic and Haitian/Caribbean Americans. The campaign includes television and radio commercials, a public service message, print ads, outdoor ads and a website. The campaign will be expanded to include the AIDS Drug Assistance initiative.

COLLABORATION WITH THE NAACP:

The HIV/AIDS program works closely with the NAACP to address HIV/AIDS disparities among blacks. The HIV/AIDS program helps to organize health fairs, participate during annual statewide conventions and consult the President of the NAACP on statewide HIV/AIDS issues as it relates to blacks.

NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY:

February 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a community mobilization effort that emphasizes the disproportionate impact that HIV/AIDS is having among blacks and encourages individuals to be counseled and tested for the virus. Each year, the HIV/AIDS program encourages community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, and county health departments from across the state to conduct educational and outreach activities, HIV testing and many other special events that will empower and mobilize black communities in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

NATIONAL LATINO AIDS AWARENESS DAY (NLAAD):

October 15 is National Latino AIDS Awareness Day. This day is set aside to heighten awareness about HIV/AIDS and encourage individuals to get tested for HIV. Each year, the HIV/AIDS program encourages county health departments, community-based organizations and the community as a whole to plan and participate in HIV/AIDS activities that promote awareness and encourages individuals to get tested for HIV. Statewide NLAAD events usually include HIV/AIDS outreach, counseling, testing, referral services, health fairs, educational presentations and condom distribution in Latino communities.

MINORITY AIDS INITIATIVE:

The HIV/AIDS program currently funds seven minority community-based organizations to increase and continue minority participation in the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. The Antiretroviral Treatment Access Study (ARTAS) is implemented as a tool to improve linkage to care for HIV infected minorities that are not in care.

BUILDING ORGANIZATIONAL PROFICIENCY PROJECTS (BOPP):

The HIV/AIDS program provides $75,000 in funding to two minority community-based organizations, which provide services on a voluntary basis and may have applied for grants, but have been unsuccessful in securing funding. The funds will allow the establishment of infrastructure, including securing a location, office furniture and other office supplies, and funds for the hiring of qualified applicants into key positions. The community-based organizations will continue to receive intensive one-on-one capacity building assistance and technical assistance from the HIV/AIDS program and county health department staff.

TARGETED OUTREACH FOR PREGNANT WOMEN ACT (TOWPA):

As part of a legislative requirement, the HIV/AIDS program has funded seven community-based organizations to identify high-risk minority pregnant women through outreach and link them with prenatal care and other services. TOPWA providers also offer pregnancy and HIV testing and provide education about the benefits of prenatal care and the use of AZT to reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to infants.

BLACK AND LATINO LEADERS ADVISORY GROUPS:

The HIV/AIDS program established a Black and Latino Leaders Advisory Group in an effort to address HIV/AIDS issues in Florida’s Black and Latino communities. The advisory group consists of Black and Latino community leaders that were nominated by their community and department staff from around the state. The role of the group is to serve as a voice for the Black and Latino community and to make recommendations to the HIV/AIDS program on the HIV/AIDS issues affecting Florida’s Black and Latino communities.

Statewide Latino AIDS Coordinator: In an effort to further address HIV/AIDS disparities among Florida’s Latinos and at the request of the Latino Leaders Advisory Committee, the HIV/AIDS program designated a Statewide Latino AIDS Coordinator to help reduce HIV/AIDS among Latinos. The position is located at the Miami-Dade County Health Department and reports to the Statewide Minority AIDS Coordinator located in Tallahassee. This position will be responsible for planning and coordinating HIV/AIDS activities in Florida’s Latino communities.

Statewide Black Men who Have Sex with Men (MSM) AIDS Coordinator: In an effort to further address HIV/AIDS disparities among Florida’s Black men who have sex with men and at the request of the Black Leaders Advisory Committee, the HIV/AIDS program designated a Statewide Black MSM Coordinator to help reduce HIV/AIDS among Black MSM. The position is located at the Palm Beach County Health Department and reports to the Statewide Minority AIDS Coordinator located in Tallahassee. This position will be responsible for planning and coordinating HIV/AIDS activities in Florida’s Black MSM communities.

MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN MEDIA CAMPAIGN:

In collaboration with the Black and Latino MSM groups, the HIV/AIDS program has created MSM media campaign that consists of four components. The components of the MSM media campaign are: Internet Banners and Leader board on gay websites; Gay event sponsorship; Interior Bus Transit ads; and ads in Gay publications.

UJIMA MEN’S COLLECTIVE:

In order to address the black men who have sex with men (MSM’s) population in Florida, the HIV/AIDS program funded Ujima Men’s Collective. The mission of the Ujima Men’s Collective is to create a network of black MSM from around the state of Florida to address issues that are germane to black MSM in various populations. The primary focus of the Ujima Men’s Collective is to build the capacity of black MSM to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

25 MYTHS / 25 REALITIES (25 MITOS/ 25 REALIDADES):

The Hispanic AIDS Awareness Program (HAAP), Miami-Dade County Health Department and the acclaimed TV/Theater producer Miguel Ferro were the producers of 25 Myths / 25 Realities (25 Mitos/ 25 Realidades): An HIV/AIDS Latino Public Service Awareness (PSA) Campaign. This campaign has secured the support of 27 Latino celebrities who through their image and voices recorded 25 public service announcements that address the truth about HIV/AIDS myths. The 25 televisions and print public service announcements are now available at HAAP web site, www.HispanicAIDS.org.

PALABRAS SABIAS

“Palabras Sabias” (words of wisdom) is a Latino HIV/AIDS social marketing campaign designed to increase HIV/AIDS awareness. Commonly-used Spanish phrases are combined with HIV prevention messages. The campaign uses posters and vintage cards to promote HIV prevention, testing, and linkage to care. They are intended to be used in prevention educational efforts at community events and outdoor print media. The posters are intended to reach heterosexual Latinos and Latinas, while the vintage card series targets Latino Gay Men.

DAMARIES” AND “MSM LATINO

“Damaries” and “MSM Latino” are two public service announcements targeted towards Latinas and Latino MSM at highest risk for HIV infection. The MSM Latino PSA targets gay-identified men and non-gay identified men who have sex with other men. The PSAs will air in radio/TV media and coordinated/organized settings (e.g. physicians’ waiting rooms, health fairs, community events, video bars, etc.).

POSTIVO SOY

“Postivo Soy” (I am Positive) is a half-hour video about four Latino men living with AIDS. The four men discuss issues related to HIV disclosure, medication adherence, and HIV prevention. The video, in Spanish with English subtitles, is a tool to be used in prevention interventions targeting HIV-positive individuals, addressing HIV/AIDS related stigma and medication adherence. The video was released in late July in Broward County.

QUIEN NO TE PROTEGE, NO TE MERECE

“Quien No Te Protege, no Te Merece” is a supplemental video to be used as part of the VOICES/VOCES intervention targeting Latinos. VOICES/VOCES is one of the behavioral interventions currently included within CDC’s compendium of effective behavioral interventions. Produced by the Miami-Dade County Health Department, Office of HIV/AIDS, the video is intended to be used with Latino gay men and includes a diverse cast of characters.

AMIGAS

“Amigas” is a study designed to adapt an HIV prevention intervention found to be effective for African American women. The study is now entering its pilot phase and is currently recruiting Latinas into the study. This effort is spearheaded by the Miami-Dade County Health Department, Office of HIV/AIDS, in collaboration with researchers Ralph DiClemente and Gina Wingood. Upon the completion of the study phase, the intervention will be considered for inclusion in CDC’s compendium of effective behavioral interventions.

FINDING OUR VOICES: MOBILIZING BLACK GAY MEN

Finding Our Voices: Mobilizing Black Gay Men DVD is a community mobilization initiative to stop the spread of HIV and AIDS among black gay men. The purpose of DVD is to raise awareness and to mobilize black gay men to respond to the HIV/AIDS crisis in their communities. The goals are to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis among black gay men, to promote greater understanding about issues surrounding HIV/AIDS that affect black gay men. The Florida Department of Health, HIV/AIDS program encourages individuals, providers, and communities to promote strategies for effective interventions to reduce new infections and encourage black gay men to get tested.

HOUSING:

Mscc does not provide housing/rental assistance, but it is available through this program:

HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS (HOPWA) FLORIDA STATE PROGRAM

This website presents contact, programmatic and policy information about housing services provided to eligible persons with HIV/AIDS through the State HOPWA Program.

The Florida State HOPWA Program Policies and Procedures

HOPWA Reporting Requirements

State HOPWA Income Eligibility Worksheet, and Tenant Income and Rent Calculation Worksheet

These documents were created to provide uniform, consistent guidance on the Florida State HOPWA Program to assist local HOPWA project sponsors, County Health Departments, case management agencies, DOH staff, and any other parties responsible for the implementation of the day‐to‐day activities of the HOPWA program. These policies and procedures provide more detailed clarification for current activities, and serve as comprehensive guidance on the implementation of long‐term permanent housing as a statewide activity. Standardization of these HOPWA policies and procedures improves service delivery, provides for fair and equitable access to services, and alleviates problems of inconsistency associated with local program guidelines.

24 CFR PART 574 HOPWA was created through the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, and authorized by the AIDS Housing Opportunity Act of 1992. It is administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and the Office of HIV/AIDS Housing (OHH) at HUD Headquarters (Office Community Planning and Development). HOPWA Regulations 24 CFR 574 provide the requirements and framework for the HOPWA Program and should be referred to as needed.

NOTICE CPD 06-07 This Notice was issued August 3, 2006 and cross references 24CFR part 574 which covers short-term and permanent housing assistance and waiver information. This notice provides standards for HOPWA short-term rent, mortgage and utility payments and connections to permanent housing The Frequent Questions and Answers on the last page is emphasized.
Note: HOPWA Notices are issued by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Community Planning and Development for all HOPWA grantees and Project Sponsors. This information is incorporated by references into the State HOPWA contracts and provides updated policies and procedures for the State HOPWA Program. All HOPWA Project Sponsors should routinely read the Notices.

POLITICS

Aids United Policy Action Center keeps you informed on important HIV/AIDS issues, helps you find and track legislation, connects you with Congress, and gives you the tools you need to be a successful HIV advocate. Help us make history.
Learn More

PREP (PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS)

Is a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy that involves the daily use of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection in HIV-negative individuals. In July 2012, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Truvada(TDF/FTC) for use as PrEP in HIV prevention in sexually active HIV–negative individuals. PrEP should be used in conjunction with other prevention methods to reduce the risk of infection.

HIV PrEP and nPEP Provider List – by Area
Interactive location map for provider lists by area

PREP RESOURCES:

PrEP Toolkit
PrEP Resource Tool, October 2014
PrEP Booklet for MSM-Project Inform, June 2014
“Is taking PrEP the right choice for you?” is a guide that includes an overview of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), how PrEP fits into your life, making decisions with your doctor, and using PrEP in mixed status couples.
AETC Guidelines for PrEP and PEP, March 2014
This resource was created by the Florida/Caribbean AIDS Education and Training Center and summarizes the guidelines for the management of occupational and non-occupational exposures to HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV is also summarized.

For information regarding medication assistance http://www.truvada.com/truvada-patient-assistance. Several programs are available to learn more about and assist with payment of Truvada for HIV PrEP.

Truvada Medication Assistance Program Application for PrEP
This is the required form for Gilead to provide financial assistance to qualified applicants.

Clinical Providers’ Supplement
“Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of HIV Infection in the United States – 2014” is a clinical providers’ supplement published by the U.S. Public Health Service, including templates for informational handouts.

NASTAD PrEP/PEP
The National Alliance for State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) created a patient assistance fact sheet as a quick reference for PrEP and PEP medication assistance.

CDC PrEP
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has made available a summary of research, including PrEP Q&As, a PrEP support hotline for clinicians, and a fact sheet.

AHRQ PrEP Guideline Summary
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has provided a comprehensive clinical practice guideline summary for use of PrEP in the U.S

AIDSinfo– PrEP
A Clinical Guidelines Portal is available for a variety of HIV treatment resources, including PrEP for HIV prevention.

AETC- PrEP

AIDSinfo- PrEP

PEP (POST EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS)

Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) involves taking antiretroviral medications as soon as possible after a potential exposure to HIV to reduce the likelihood of HIV infection. There are two types of PEP: 1) occupational PEP, or an exposure that happens in the workplace (such as a needle stick in a healthcare setting), and 2) non-occupational PEP (nPEP), or when someone is potentially exposed to HIV through sexual intercourse or injection drug use.

To be effective, PEP must begin with 72 hours of exposure and consists of 2-3 antiretroviral medications that must be taken for 28 days. A physician must determine what treatment is appropriate based on the nature of the exposure. Starting PEP after a potential exposure does not guarantee that someone exposed to HIV will not become infected.

PEP RESOURCES:

nPEP Toolkit

July 2013 Updated Guidelines for HIV Prophylaxis Following Non-Occupational Exposure (nPEP)
Prophylaxis-Following-Non-Occupational-Exposure.pdf
A helpful resource from the New York Department of Health AIDS Institute is available to provide recommendations and guidelines for prescribing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following non-occupational exposure to HIV.

AETC Prevention & Testing Guidelines (PEP, PrEP, Prevention with Positives)
The AIDS Education & Training Center (AETC) National Resource Center has available active resources of guidance for the care of HIV-exposed individuals.

CDC- Antiretroviral Treatment for Prevention of HIV Transmission
This Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) released by the CDC outlines non-occupational and occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP and PEP) in the U.S.

Non-Occupational PEP Guidelines

OSHA Fact Sheet- Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Incidents
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides information for employers and employees regarding reporting incidents of possible exposure to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, or other bloodborne pathogens, as well as preventing the spread.

For information regarding medication assistance
http://www.truvada.com/truvada-patient-assistance