What Is The HIV Care Continuum?

Our main goal is to provide excellent HIV care in Tampa. We create a safe and supportive space for our patients, following the HIV care continuum to meet their needs.

Getting tested for STIs is an important part of your health. We know that testing can be stressful, but if you test positive, treatment options are available.

While there isn’t a cure for HIV, our Tampa team can help you live a symptom-free life. We use the HIV care continuum to help our patients achieve successful viral suppression.

What Is The HIV Care Continuum?

The HIV care continuum is a process that helps patients who test positive for HIV get the care they need. It includes:

1. HIV Diagnosis

2. Connection to HIV Medical Care

3. Getting HIV Medical Care

4. Keeping HIV Medical Care

5. Achieving and Maintaining Viral Suppression

At Harmony Healthcare, we make it easy to find the care you need for sexual health and overall well-being. Regular STI checks help you stay informed and address any health concerns promptly. Here’s how our team guides you through the HIV care continuum.

Step 1: HIV Diagnosis

We want to make it easy for you to take charge of your sexual health. We offer STI testing for walk-in patients and those with appointments.

The testing visit involves a quick finger stick for a blood sample, using FDA-approved CLIA-waived rapid tests that check for HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies. Results are ready in about 15 minutes. If your test is positive (reactive), we will take another blood sample for a confirmatory test to rule out false results.

Step 2: Connection to HIV Medical Care

If you receive a positive result at our clinic, connecting to HIV medical care is the next important step. We’ll help you access the medical care you need and provide support for managing your health.

Step 3: Getting HIV Medical Care

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is the main HIV treatment, equiring daily medication. Starting treatment right after a positive diagnosis is essential. While ART doesn’t cure HIV, it greatly lowers the risk of transmission and can reduce the viral load to an undetectable level. When your viral load is undetectable, the chance of passing HIV to an HIV-negative partner during sex is extremely low.

Step 4: Keeping HIV Medical Care

HIV treatment is a continuous journey, and maintaining a relationship with your medical provider is vital. Our dedicated team helps you manage medications, schedule regular check-ups, and access counseling or other resources. We focus on your physical, emotional, and social needs to ensure you receive comprehensive care. 

Step 5: Achieving and Maintaining Viral Suppression

According to the CDC, people with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load can live long, healthy lives without transmitting the virus. This concept is often called “Undetectable = Untransmittable” or U=U.

The Role of Community and Mental Health Support in HIV Care

Living with HIV means more than just managing your physical health; it also involves addressing emotional and social challenges. At Harmony Healthcare, we recognize the importance of a supportive environment and mental health resources. Here’s how we help our patients thrive:

Building a Supportive Community

We create a sense of community in our HIV care program, connecting patients with support groups and resources for open discussions and shared experiences. Being part of a community helps reduce feelings of isolation and stigma.

Emphasizing Ongoing Education

We believe that understanding HIV is key to managing your health effectively. From learning about U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) to understanding how ART works, our goal is to equip every patient with the tools they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

Prioritizing Mental Health

An HIV diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact. That’s why we provide access to mental health support as part of our comprehensive care. Counseling and therapy can help patients deal with anxiety, depression, and other related challenges, improving their overall well-being.

Your Partner in HIV Care

Harmony Healthcare is dedicated to supporting every part of our patients’ lives, from diagnosis to long-term management. Whether you need medical treatment, mental health services, or a supportive community, our Tampa HIV care team is here for you. Together, we can help you achieve viral suppression, enhance your quality of life, and empower you to live confidently with HIV.

Harmony Healthcare Cares

Partner with our Tampa HIV care team to help you reach U=U, allowing you to live without worry about your HIV status. Come to us for STI tests and stay for any treatments you may need. We’re here to support you on your journey to optimal health, even while living with HIV. Contact our clinic for more information.