AIDS/HIV Prevention Counseling

The agency provides HIV/AIDS services to people who live in Los Angeles County. Services include advocacy, AIDS prevention kits, case management services, contract clinic services for primary care, in-home support services, AIDS/HIV prevention counseling, HIV testing and needle exchange/distribution and transitional housing. There are no geographic restrictions.

The AIDS prevention kit is a clean needle exchange, and is primarily available to residents of North Hollywood and Pacoima, though anyone is eligible. The program is operated with the cooperation of the local and county police and civic leaders. The needle exchange/distribution occurs at three different sites in Pacoima and Van Nuys; call for more information. Used needles may be exchanged for new needles.

The agency also offers the HIV/AIDS PrEP program that provides pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) treatment for people who have high-risk HIV/AIDS exposure. PrEP includes a daily medication to reduce the risk of HIV infection.

The agency participates in the My Health LA contract Clinic program with additional support from the Ryan White Foundation. People who have AIDS/HIV and who qualify for My Health LA may receive primary care at 3 Clinic locations in SPAs 1 and 2. The program provides primary care health coverage for low income people ages 19 to 64, who are LA County Residents, US Citizens, or are legal immigrants, and who are not eligible under insurance plans, or other third party coverage such as Medi-Cal. Income must be at or below 133 % of Federal Poverty Level. A Benefits Specialist is available to help clients with My Health LA applications.

The center enrolls patients for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), which provides FDA-approved HIV-related drugs at little or no cost to those who are eligible; call for more information.

Case management services include counseling and referrals to other community services.

In-home support services are provided to AIDS patients who are unable to come to the center for services. An RN and a social worker visit the home of an enrolled client on a weekly basis. Attendants and housekeepers may also be provided on a case-by-case basis.

HIV/AIDS education and prevention is provided through speakers and literature for community services as well as people already involved in the agency's programs.

HIV testing is provided two days per week through a mobile unit, is confidential and open to the public.

Transitional housing program is available for people with HIV/AIDS. Must fill out an application for program and there is a waiting list.