The HOPE Center
Macon, Georgia
The Center of Excellence
The HOPE Center Mission Statement
The AIDS epidemic, which began in 1981, has presented a myriad of new and difficult problems for public health workers. Human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) infection is a chronic condition, which results in progressive impairment of the immune system through destruction of CD4+ lymphocytes, and by other less well defined mechanisms.
While the infection cannot be cured, there are preventive measures including vaccinations, medications and lifestyle recommendations which can potentially slow the progress of immune system dysfunction and prevent secondary morbidity.
In order to determine the need for preventive measure such as antiretroviral therapy or prophylaxis for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, the Center for Disease Control has recommended that persons with HIV infection have regular monitoring of immune system function using helper-inducer (T4 or CD4+) lymphocyte counts as an indicator.
Unfortunately many of our population have tested positive for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS and more tragically, many who are HIV positive are unaware of their status. Some of these individuals can be referred to their local private physicians for evaluation. Others, for reason of confidentiality, lack of health care coverage, or physician’s unavailability do not have access to available health care.
The Health District V, Unit II HOPE Center was developed in 1989 to meet the health care needs of individuals with HIV disease. Since that time the virus has developed into an epidemic locally.
District 5-2 Ryan White Program will improve the quality of life and advocate for those infected and/or affected with HIV/AIDS, by providing quality primary care in an dedicated, compassionate and non-judgmental ambulatory environment. We strive to improve our consumers' quality of life through direct services, education and self-management skills.
VISION STATEMENT
We envision an educated community where the needs of all HIV/AIDS infected and/or affected individuals are met by accessible, effective and culturally sensitive health and psychosocial services that are part of a fully coordinated system. To reach out to all individuals, including hard-to-reach and traditionally underserved populations, who are living with HIV/AIDS.
GOALS
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Collaborate with and utilize information from all constituencies to plan and deliver high quality and cost effective care.
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Identify and provide services to unserved and underserved populations.
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Promote the dissemination of information on HIV prevention, treatment and resources.
Written: November 2000
Revised: January 2002, December 2004, February 2005
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Last Updated 02/16/2009
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