HIV Specialty Care

HIV Testing & Specialty Care

Why should I get tested for HIV?
Knowing your status is an important part of your healthcare routine. By getting tested, you are taking the first step in taking charge of your sexual health for yourself and those around you. The CDC recommends that sexually-active individuals get tested at least once and more often if they are at higher risk. Our four office locations and three mobile units offer rapid HIV testing at no cost to you!
HIV Specialty Care
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is treated with a combination of medications called Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). When taken regularly under the supervision of a healthcare provider, this type of treatment can successfully reduce the amount of HIV in your body quickly to an undetectable level. This treatment does not cure HIV but can lead you to having an undetectable viral load (< 200 copies per mL in blood). Maintaining an undetectable viral load means you cannot sexually transmit the virus to another person as long as you are taking your medication as prescribed. However, this does not apply to other STIs – so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about options available to you and your partner(s)!
Types of Treatment
There are multiple FDA-approved medications for HIV treatment which can be taken in two forms: orally or by injection.

HIV Medical Care

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It weakens a person’s immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection.

PEP

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) are antiretroviral medicines (ART) taken after being potentially exposed to HIV to prevent becoming infected and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV.

STI Testing and Treatment

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are commonly spread by sexual activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How is HIV transmitted?
HIV can be transmitted by contact with certain bodily fluids from a person with HIV who has a detectable viral load. These fluids are blood, semen, breast milk, vaginal, and anal fluids.

Transmission can occur:
  • During unprotected sex, sex with a broken condom, or oral sex.
  • By sharing injection drug equipment or receiving blood transfusions with contaminated blood.
  • Through contact with open wounds and/or broken skin.
    • What is the difference between HIV versus AIDS?
    HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the cells in your immune system and can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if left untreated.
    AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged because of the virus (cited source: www.hiv.gov). The only way to know your status is to get tested. Testing is quick and simple, with rapid testing results available in as little as 15 minutes! Call or stop by our office today for your free test!
    How can HIV be prevented?
    Our offices offer PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to patients who do not have HIV and want a preventative method. We also offer PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), which can be taken after being potentially exposed to HIV. To prevent the transmission of HIV, PEP must be started within 72 hours after a possible exposure to the virus.
    Why should I get an HIV test?
    Knowledge is power. If you know your status, you can take charge of your health by starting treatment promptly or exploring options to prevent HIV transmission.

    Testimonials

    • Harmony Healthcare is a great place to have as a primary care provider. I’m so happy to have found a place where I feel comfortable and valued as a patient. Stars

      W.H.

      Harmony Healthcare
    • Very convenient location, very thorough and professional providers. They provide all the medical services you need in a great setting and extremely efficient. Highly recommend! Stars

      C.O.

      Harmony Healthcare

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