Update on COVID-19 - April 3,2020

Updated Statement from our Executive Director Nicole Roebuck

AID Atlanta cares deeply about the health and well-being of our clients, patients, members, volunteers, and staff. In an abundance of caution and in alignment, AID Atlanta has adopted physical distancing practices, and has implemented it throughout our agency, but with specific attention to our mission-based programs. Limited contact with members/patients is being enforced for their safety. Any patient/member/vendor allowed entry to the building will first be screened for COVID symptoms. Due to the Georgia Statewide Stay at Home order, the staffing onsite has been reduced significantly to continue to promote safe distancing in compliance with the order. The majority of our non-essential staff are still conducting business and services remotely, via telephonic and electronic modes of communication. Additional cleaning and sanitizing is also occurring daily in both locations.

Wellness Center: HIV Testing, STI Screening, PrEP Education and Therapeutic Treatment

• HIV Testing (onsite and outreach), STI Screening and PrEP Education and Counseling have been suspended until further notice since social distancing cannot be achieved during the provision of these services.
• If an individual has already been screened for an STI and have positive results or are presenting visible symptoms, and need treatment for STIs, or they have a need to refill PrEP medications, they should call the Wellness Services Center (404-870-7741) to discuss treatment options.

Health Care Center (HCC) and Pharmacy

• HIV Health care services are being provided via telephonic consultations. For our Midtown location, patients should please contact the HCC regarding their upcoming appointment at 404-870-7754. For the Newnan location contact 770-252-5418. If the provider deems it medically necessary for them to come in and be seen for treatment or lab work, they will make the necessary arrangements for them to come in. Also, if they are a patient of the HCCs, AND are experiencing fever, flu-like symptoms, coughing, shortness of breath, etc., please call the Nurse Advice line at 888-993-2880 to discuss treatment options.
• Pharmacy hours are 9am-6pm however the pharmacy is providing pharmacy services primarily through delivery and mail order. If they have a question about their medications, call first at 404-879-3990. We are asking that patients/members not to come to the building site without clearance from their provider or pharmacist.

Client Services: Case Management, Housing Assistance, AIDS Drug Assistance (ADAP), Health Insurance Continuation Program (HICP), Behavioral Health

• All client services are being provided via telephone consultations or email. Existing clients/members of any of the programs listed above, should speak with their social service provider about their current needs. Contact the Information Hotline at 800-551-2728 if they need the number to their case manager, patient benefits specialist, or behavioral health specialist. Currently AID Atlanta is no longer accepting new applications for housing financial assistance due to lack of funding. Members seeking housing assistance should contact the Central Intake line at HOPE Atlanta for more information about housing assistance at 404-574-1693.

For more additional information about AID Atlanta services, or other HIV/STI services across the State, please contact the Georgia Information/Hotline which is operated by AID Atlanta at 800-551-2728.
Please note that due to the reduced number of staff onsite, callers may have to leave a message to reach their respective provider, case manager, etc. which will be checked throughout the day by the respective staff persons. Your patience during this crisis is much appreciated.

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Additional resources:

CDC – Info on COVID-19
WHO – advice for the public: Myth busters
The Body - What You Need to Know About the coronavirus and HIV
POZ.com