Services
Regional Prevention and Support Services Initiative (RPSSI)
Program Overview
The RPSSI provides case management to individuals who register in the program. The program focuses on decreasing the risk of new HIV infections in people at risk of contracting HIV, Hepatitis C, and sexually transmitted infections. Access to clients and awareness on the use of PEP (Post-exposure Prophylaxis) which means, taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure and PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV prevention for individuals at risk continued to be offered to clients.
Location
Nassau County
Community Health Worker
Yessi Torres
(516) 538-2613 Ext. 286
ytorres@hispaniccounseling.org
Qualifications
Any member of the community can participate in the RPSSI program regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, and legal status. Individuals need to be Nassau County residents and at risk or in need of testing
During 2023 HCC continued year 3 of the RPSSI program in partnership with Northwell Health and the North Shore University Center for AIDS Research and Treatment (CART). HCC is proud to be a partner in this multi-organization effort implemented by hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations in Nassau County. In 2023, 87 clients were served and registered. 219 clients received services during the year and were placed in the electronic system – RedCap. 300 clients were reached and educated on the RPSSI program services.
The Reason
The RPSSI Program is much needed in the community. It allows the program worker to educate and reach the community to prevent the spread of HIV and STDs.
The implementation of the RPSSI in the community builds relationships with medical providers, case managers and continues the referral process for testing and other services.
The Solution
The individuals in the community who have been affected by HIV and STDs are referred to medical clinics, and mental health services and are also linked to other much-needed concrete services such as food pantries, housing, and any other need they might have.
The Implementation
Clients who register for the RPSSI program are encouraged to attend a clinic for testing. After they are tested at the clinic, if a positive diagnosis is found; they are connected for services/treatment in which a case manager is assigned to them, and after they are also linked to other concrete services they might need. The clients are then registered in the RPSSI programs database RedCap and follow-up is conducted for 3-6 months to assure treatment adherence.
Testimonials
“Good afternoon, I want to share my testimony to help people who are not aware of this program. The Regional Supportive Services Initiative is a program that helped me when I needed it most; the staff helped me with food and clothing for my children, helped me understand the importance of getting tested and helped me with PrEP, which are pills to avoid diseases.”
“I am very grateful because they have always been with me when I need advice or have questions. The community health worker is one of the best people I know. Its good to know we have their help because sometimes we need help and there are so few and limited resources.”
Get Started with HCC
Please contact Yessi Torres, Community Health Worker at 516-538-2613 Ext. 286 or via email at ytorres@hispaniccounseling.org