Sunday, May 11, 2025
5/11/2025
Ryan White Part C Outpatient EIS Program - Near North Health (NNH) serves Chicago, Illinois, a metropolitan area with a significant burden of HIV infection. Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, faces unique public health challenges due to its diverse and densely populated urban landscape. Our primary service areas include the Near North, Near South, and Near West neighborhoods, encompassing the following zip codes: 60623, 60618, 60636, 60621, 60612, 60641, 60640, 60644, 60647, 60616, 60628, 60609, 60617, 60624, 60620, 60649, 60637, 60619, 60615, 60639, 60610, 60651, and 60653. NNH has over 50 years of experience in providing comprehensive outpatient primary health care and support services to diverse populations, including people with HIV. Our organization has been a vital resource in the community, delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that addresses both the medical and psychosocial needs of our patients. NNH has been a recipient of various federal and state funds, demonstrating our capability in managing and utilizing these resources effectively to enhance patient outcomes. NNH has a robust history of administering federal funds, including Ryan White Part C and D and various HRSA grants. We have established systems for financial management, compliance, and reporting, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and in accordance with all federal guidelines. Our fiscal management team is proficient in monitoring expenditures, ensuring transparency, and achieving program goals. In the designated service area, there are significant disparities in HIV incidence and prevalence. According to the latest data: Incidence: In 2022, Chicago reported 1,150 new HIV diagnoses. The majority of these cases were among men who have sex with men (MSM), followed by heterosexual contact and injection drug use. The highest incidence rates were observed in African American and Hispanic communities. Prevalence: As of 2022, there are approximately 28,000 people living with HIV in Chicago. The prevalence is highest among African American and Hispanic populations, who represent 48% and 30% of the cases, respectively. NNH will utilize RWHAP Part C funds to support the HIV care continuum in our service area through: Expansion of Testing and Linkage Services: We aim to increase targeted HIV testing and ensure rapid linkage to care for newly diagnosed individuals. Our goal is to engage individuals within 30 days of diagnosis and provide immediate access to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Comprehensive Care Coordination: Implementing the Washington AIMS model to integrate behavioral health into primary care, providing holistic support to our patients. This model, recognized as the gold standard, will enhance our capacity to manage mental health and substance use disorders. Addressing Social Determinants of Health: Through our comprehensive case management services, we will address barriers such as housing instability, transportation, and economic hardships. We provide assistance with insurance navigation, financial aid, and housing support services to ensure patients can adhere to their treatment regimens. Community Outreach and Education: Engaging with community organizations to conduct outreach and education programs aimed at reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and promoting prevention methods, including PrEP and safer sex practices. Quality Improvement Initiatives: Utilizing data-driven approaches to monitor and improve patient outcomes, focusing on increasing viral suppression rates and reducing health disparities among our priority populations. By leveraging RWHAP Part C funds, NNH is committed to enhancing the continuum of care for people with HIV in Chicago, ensuring that they receive the comprehensive, high-quality care they need to achieve and maintain viral suppression and overall well-being.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).