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Why choose Geisinger for HIV care?

Geisinger’s Ryan White Program provides resources and care for people living with HIV and their families. This federally sponsored program is named in honor of Ryan White, who was 13 when he was diagnosed with AIDS after a blood transfusion in December 1984. 

Not only does the program connect people with HIV to infectious diseases specialists who will provide medical care and medications, but it also offers a pipeline to services and resources in central and northeast Pennsylvania, so you can get care close to home. And if you need telehealth services, we’ve got you covered.

Geisinger became part of this program in 2020, and we’re committed to offering comprehensive, holistic care throughout treatment for you and your family, whether you’re looking for testing, treatment, support or all 3 — all in 1 place.

 

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FAQs

What is HIV?

Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, which can inhibit the body’s ability to fight infection and disease. Left untreated, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a chronic condition that can be fatal.

How do people get HIV?

HIV is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids from a person who is HIV-positive. Most commonly, this happens through unprotected sex or sharing drug-injecting equipment, like syringes. Mother-to-child transmission can also happen during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding.

Is HIV treatable?

In recent years, advances in treatment for HIV have greatly increased the length and quality of life for people living with this virus.

How can I find out if I have HIV?

HIV testing is the only way to know your HIV status. Testing is completely confidential, and our specialists can counsel you through your experience.

What is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication you can take to reduce your chances of contracting HIV from sex or injection drug use.

What is PEP?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medication to take if you think you’ve been exposed to HIV. This medication is only used in emergency situations and should be taken within 72 hours of the possible exposure.

What do HIV medications do?

HIV treatment includes medications that can greatly reduce your viral load, or the amount of the virus in your blood, to the point where the virus is undetectable.

What kind of HIV treatment and resources are available?

Our case managers can connect you to all the resources you need. The Geisinger Ryan White HIV Program can help you and your family get services in areas such as:

  • Substance use disorder 
  • Behavioral health
  • Directed HIV care
  • Housing 
  • Legal services
  • Medical and dental care
  • Telehealth
  • Transportation
  • Other services, depending on your needs
 

HIV care at Geisinger 

When you come to Geisinger for HIV care, you’ll get:

  • Care you can trust: With infectious diseases specialists who are trained and experienced in treating HIV and AIDS, your care is personalized to you.
  • Care where you need it: You’ll find our infectious diseases specialists at several locations throughout Geisinger’s central and northeast regions. We also offer telehealth services for added convenience.
  • Comprehensive HIV services: Our case managers connect you with everything you need to live healthy — your way. From HIV treatment and medications to community resources like transportation and behavioral health services, we have everything you need, all in one place.