Among metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) nationally, the Jackson MSA had the 4thhighest
for HIV diagnoses. The proposed project will use current epidemiological data for a data-driven approach for distributing funds throughout the jurisdiction with an emphasis on health equity among disproportionately affected communities and populations. The Jackson MSA will be a focus for programmatic activity as it is the epicenter of the epidemic in Mississippi, as well as serving as the social hub for the MSM community statewide.
This proposed High Impact Prevention and Surveillance Project will focus on achieving the four goals of the National HIV/AIDs Strategy: (1) Preventing new HIV infections, (2) Improving HIV-related health outcomes of people with HIV, (3) Reducing HIV-related disparities and health inequities, and (4) Achieving integrated, coordinated efforts that address the HIV epidemic among all partners while incorporating the four science-based foundational strategies for communities most affected by HIV (EHE) across the country. Diagnose all people with HIV as early as possible. Treat people with HIV rapidly and effectively to result in sustained viral suppression. Prevent new HIV transmissions by using proven interventions, including condom distribution, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). Respond quickly to potential HIV outbreaks to get vital prevention and treatment services to people who need them. Two additional strategies will be implemented to round out the approach. Conduct HIV Surveillance activities and Support community engagement and HIV planning.
This program proposes to use high-impact prevention (HIP) with a focus on a flexible yet comprehensive and person-centered approach that supports scientifically proven, cost-
effective interventions. The MS State Department of Health (MSDH) will use funds awarded under this funding opportunity to build strong, flexible, and durable partnerships in implementing strategies to support the social change necessary to eliminate identified health inequalities. The Program will allocate sub-awards to partners through a Request for Application process to further develop and implement culturally tailored, holistic, effective interventions based upon epidemiological data of the levels of prevalence across the state.
The three overall or long-term outcomes expected from the successful implementation of this high impact proposed project are to (1) Reduced new HIV infections, (2) Improved health outcomes for people with HIV, including sustained viral suppression, and (3) Reduced HIV-related health disparities. There are twenty-two (22) short-term and eleven (11) intermediate outcomes that are expected as a result of success implementation of the three (3) foundational requirements, six (6) strategies, twenty-one (21) activities, and sixty-eight (68) action steps.