Marking World AIDS Day, NYC Health + Hospitals has issued a reminder for New Yorkers about the availability of affordable, culturally relevant, and unbiased care for individuals seeking HIV testing, prevention, or treatment. The organization operates 11 state-recognized acute care hospitals and six Gotham Health community clinics that offer premium HIV prevention and treatment services. Some of these services include new long-acting prevention or treatment alternatives that eliminate daily pill usage. Interested parties can now conveniently schedule appointments through a dedicated helpline at 1-844-NYC-4NYC. Additional details about locations and services are also provided on the organization’s official website.
Dr. Andrew Wallach, the Chief Medical Officer for Ambulatory Care at NYC Health + Hospitals, exuded firm resolve towards continuing the fight against HIV, providing patients with the highest quality care permeated with respect and compassion. The emphasis on HIV testing at NYC Health + Hospitals allows patients who test positive to commence treatment the same day. Nichola Davis, MD, MS, the Vice President and Chief Population Health Officer, highlighted the availability of HIV PrEP and PEP programs, supporting patients’ autonomy over their sexual health.
Recent data reveal that about 98% of the over 13,000 patients with HIV who engaged in primary care at NYC Health + Hospitals over the last year were on antiretroviral therapy, with 89% demonstrating suppressed viral load. More than 230,000 individuals underwent HIV testing in 2024. One-third of New York State’s Designated AIDS Centers are within NYC Health + Hospitals’ purview, offering patient-centered care, antiretroviral therapy, virtual care appointments, and specialized outreach programs.
HIV prevention remains at the core of NYC Health + Hospitals’ mission to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis, vital tools to enhance sexual health and wellbeing, are the focus areas. The organization provides long-acting injectable medications for PrEP at low or no cost, irrespective of individuals’ insurance or immigration status. Pride Centers and HIV Clinics, along with Primary Care and Women’s Health clinics offer PrEP. NYC Health + Hospitals commemorated World AIDS Day with events and resource distribution for community members affected by HIV or AIDS-related illnesses.
Various facilities hosted panel discussions, patient art exhibits, parades, and PrEP screenings to disseminate education, provide resources, and extend support to the affected communities. NYC Health + Hospitals maintains its position as the largest municipal healthcare system in the U.S., providing essential health services to over a million New Yorkers annually across more than 70 patient care locations.