LGBT Helping Hands 10/7/09-Matthew 25 AIDS Services (Kentucky)

The mission of Matthew 25 AIDS Services, Inc. to support, educate and treat those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS is lived out in many ways. From the very beginning, Matthew 25’s commitment to treatment has been based on the philosophy that HIV/AIDS care must be high quality, comprehensive, and holistic. Imagine a wooden stagecoach wheel. The patient is the center of that wheel, the very HUB. Surrounding the center is spokes. In our world at Matthew 25, each of the spokes represents a critical connection for the success of the patient as well as the organization. The treatment services spokes represent many of the disciplines we provide to each patient receiving care.

The first spoke is the HIV Specialist Provider in collaboration with an infectious disease physician making an assessment of each patient’s disease process by critical examination of the patient, laboratory data that is obtained on-site at our facilities, past history, medication history, and an array of other factors. Based on the assessment, a treatment plan is established, a medication regiment is selected if indicated, and future visits and laboratory tests are determined.

The second spoke, the Adherence Nurse, works with patients to educate them about the disease, their medications and safety information. She then follows them for assertive side effect management and to help them adhere to their medications and appointments.

Matthew 25 feels that mental health plays a huge role in how the patient learns to cope with the chronic disease state of HIV/AIDS; therefore we add the third spoke. We ask that each patient meet with our Social Worker for as assessment of any mental health problems that may need assistance such as depression, substance abuse or anxiety.

Another important spoke, the Care Coordinator, works with each client to ensure access to entitlements such as insurance, disability, and any state programs.

The fourth spoke, the clinic nurse ensures that the patient’s immunizations and nutrition needs are evaluated. Finally the last care issue is explored by one of our Comprehensive Risk Counseling and Services staff members who help look at any barriers that might prevent the patient from dealing with their diagnosis and interaction with others. Such things as disclosure issues and protecting their partner from transmission of the HIV virus in a non-judgmental way, eases the stress and strain this may be causing the patient.

As you can see, managing the health of the HIV patient is very comprehensive and requires a team of folks, with the health and well-being of the patient always directly in the center, the HUB.

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