Introduction of a Comprehensive HIV Care Center in Austin
A newly launched HIV healthcare center in Austin aims to offer a variety of services aimed at enhancing local access to healthcare. Inaugurated by local and state officials including Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, the facility is an initiative of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), a global non-profit organization which targets support efforts to people living with HIV/AIDS.
Services at the New Center
Located at 2927 Guadalupe Street, the new healthcare center will offer primary medical care, pharmacy services, STI testing and treatment, as well as PrEP services and case management. The facility will also house an AHF Out of the Closet Thrift Store, raising funds to support local HIV prevention and treatment services. Remarkably, 96 cents out of each dollar earned at the thrift store will be directed towards the support of local HIV services.
The HIV Situation In Texas
With close to 7,200 individuals living with HIV in Austin and over 100,000 state-wide, the needs for such a facility are dauntingly clear. The center is seen as a significant step towards improving care access to this underserved segment of the population by AHF officials, including Russell Walker, AHF’s Southern Bureau Deputy Chief, and Anthony Snipes, AHF Regional Director for Texas. Both Walker and Snipes marked the official opening of the facility on Friday at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, expressing strong hopes for how this bastion of healthcare could support the local community.
Addressing the HIV Healthcare Gap: AHF’s Mission in Texas
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s global mission falls right in line with the new center’s objectives. As an international organization, AHF delivers crucial healthcare and advocacy to over 2 million individuals across 47 countries. Their expansive approach towards combatting HIV/AIDS is notably reflected in the construction of the new center, where they aim to provide localized, accessible HIV care services to those in need within Austin’s vibrant community.
The Inauguration Event
The official opening of the facility was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by tours of the new center. Those attending the event had the opportunity not only to view the center’s amassed resources for healthcare provision, but also to receive insights into how the facility will function on a day-to-day basis, offering comprehensive care for those living with HIV.