Southwest Center event provides community with access to medical care
While HIV infections have declined overall, the virus continues to affect marginalized communities disproportionately.
So even as Phoenix's Southwest Center has broadened the types of health care it provides, it stays focused on helping those with HIV/AIDS. On Monday, June 27 — National HIV Testing Day — the center is hosting a free walk-in HIV testing clinic.
Attendees can also be tested for sexually transmitted diseases and COVID-19. Same-day results will be available.
All tests will be free.
"We have seen numbers go down now with HIV, (but) HIV continues to have an unequal impact on certain communities. It’s very important for us to host events like this to get people tested,” said Shane Barrera, the center's HIV prevention manager.
The Southwest Center was founded more than 30 years ago to combat HIV/AIDS. The center has on-staff medical providers, counseling, nutrition education, social services and an on-site vitamin shop.
This year, the center expanded to provide more services to more people. It can provide health resources to anyone age 13 and older. Care is provided to anyone, including the uninsured or undocumented.
Center leaders say they're aiming to overcome bias and stigma that occurs in the health care system, particularly for those who identify as transgender. The center has created a gender affirming program to help navigate insurance coverage along with name and gender changes on official documents.
Free HIV Testing Day
What: Free walk-in testing for HIV, sexually transmitted infections and COVID-19 for anyone over age 13. Blood pressure checks also will be offered.
When: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, June 27.
Where: Southwest Center, 1101 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.
Bonus: Meals will be offered to those who get tested. There will be, games, food trucks and prize drawings.
Details: swcenter.org.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Southwest Center provides health care access for LGBTQ community
