Your Health Matters! Our HIV Treatment Staff Cares

Finding out you need Orlando HIV treatment can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the care and support you need to take control of your health. Let us walk this journey with you and help you feel your best!

At Harmony Healthcare Orlando, our dedicated staff is committed to your well-being, providing personalized care and support. Your health truly matters to us, and we would be honored to be a part of your healthcare team. Let’s embark on your HIV treatment path together!

The Importance of HIV Testing in Orlando

Did you know that about 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV, and nearly 158,500 of them do not know they have it? Getting tested is key to protecting your health and stopping the spread of HIV. The CDC recommends that all sexually active individuals get tested at least once and more frequently if they are at higher risk.

You might need regular HIV testing if:

• You’ve had sexual contact with someone who has HIV.
• You’ve had multiple partners or do not know your partner’s sexual history.
• You’ve shared needles or injection equipment.
• You’ve been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection (STI), hepatitis, or tuberculosis.

Talking openly with partners about sexual history and getting tested together can help keep everyone safe.

HIV Treatment

We want to address some common questions we get when we meet individuals needing HIV treatment.

How Is HIV Treated?

HIV is managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medications that lowers the virus in your body. While ART does not cure HIV, it can help you live a healthier life and reduce the risk of transmission when taken as prescribed. Understanding the HIV Care Continuum can help you see the steps involved in achieving and maintaining a healthy, undetectable status.

When Should You Start HIV Treatment?

It is best to start treatment as soon as you test positive, even if you feel fine. Early treatment helps control the virus and protects your immune system. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking before starting ART.

Which Type Of Treatment Is Better? Pills Or Shots?

HIV treatment comes in two forms: pills and shots. For individuals who are just starting HIV treatment, pills are typically recommended. There is a wide range of FDA-approved single-pill and combination medications available. 

For those who have maintained an undetectable viral load for at least three months, an alternative to pills is the option of HIV treatment shots. Healthcare providers administer these long-acting injections during regular office visits. The frequency of these shots, either once a month or every other month, depends on your specific treatment plan. It is also possible to switch treatment from pills to shots under the close supervision of your healthcare provider.

Pills or Shots: Which Is Right for You?

HIV treatment is available in two forms: daily pills or periodic shots.

• Pills: These are the most common way to start treatment. They are convenient and come in single-pill or combination options. However, they require daily commitment and may have side effects.
• Shots: Long-acting injections are an option for those with a stable, undetectable viral load for at least three months. These are given by your healthcare provider every one or two months. While they eliminate the need for daily medication, they do require regular clinic visits.

Your healthcare provider can help you decide which option fits your lifestyle and needs.

Making Orlando HIV Treatment Less Overwhelming

Seeking HIV treatment can be daunting. We can even discuss the roll of comparative genomics in HIV testing! Our team is here to take the fear out of the situation with our caring and compassionate staff of healthcare professionals. If you need testing or treatment for HIV or any other STIs, contact our team at Harmony Healthcare Orlando or stop by and say hello. We look forward to meeting you!