HIV care close to home
Geisinger Ryan White HIV Program
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 those living with HIV with medical care and medications, but it also provides a pipeline to important services and resources within the community where they live. Geisinger became part of this program in 2020.
Understanding 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.
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.
In recent years, advances in treatment for HIV have greatly increased the length and quality of life for people living with this virus.
HIV services we provide
HIV testing is the only way to know your HIV status. Testing at Geisinger is completely confidential, and our specialists can counsel you through your experience.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication you can take to reduce your chances of contracting HIV from sex or injection drug use.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medication taken 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.
HIV treatment includes medications that can greatly reduce your “viral load,” or the amount of the virus within your blood, to the point where the virus is undetectable.
Telehealth services help you manage your medications and keep in touch with your doctor in between in-person visits. Learn more about telehealth.
Connecting you with HIV treatment and resources
Our case managers are ready to connect you to what you need. The Geisinger Ryan White HIV Program can help you and your family access:
- Behavioral health services
- Medical and dental care
- Transportation services
- Addiction medicine services
- Directed HIV care
- Housing assistance
- Legal services
- Other services, depending on personal needs
HIV care at Geisinger
- Care you can trust – With infectious diseases specialists who are specifically 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 – Trust our case managers to 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.