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Information for Providers
Social Service FAQ
Referrals for Medical Care
Issues Related to a New Diagnosis of HIV
Assistance for Pregnant Women with HIV
Disclosure of HIV Status
Testing of Partners and Other Children
Referrals for Medical Care
Q: What is the most important first referral for an HIV positive pregnant woman?
A:
It is imperative that a newly HIV positive pregnant woman meet with an HIV specialist (infectious disease physician) to review her HIV disease. They will draw blood to determine her CD4 (T cells) and viral load. These tests, along with other simple blood tests, will help to determine the recommended course of antiretroviral treatment.
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Q: How can I find medical care for pregnant HIV positive clients in Illinois?
A:
The 24/7 Illinois Perinatal HIV Hotline
1-800-439-4079
can help you link your client with programs in your area. In Chicago, there are five specialty HIV/Obstetric programs that will handle both the HIV and obstetric aspects of pregnancy. In other metropolitan areas of the state there are similar programs.
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Issues Related to a New Diagnosis of HIV
Q: What non-medical issues are most HIV positive pregnant women facing?
A:
Almost half of all HIV positive pregnant women learn about their HIV status through routine, voluntary prenatal testing. The pregnant patient is concerned not only for herself, but also for the well-being of her child. It is important to reassure her that there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission to her baby to less than 1%. Many women feel an even greater loss of control over their bodies and health of the baby with a new HIV diagnosis. It is important to validate their concerns while assuring the patient that she can regain the greatest sense of control by doing everything possible to prevent transmission. While this can be a difficult adjustment, it can be achieved by attending all scheduled appointments with her HIV specialist and obstetrician and taking her medications on time everyday.
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Q: What other programs can be helpful for HIV positive pregnant women?
A:
Since HIV and pregnancy can be extremely isolating, we recommend that you assist your clients in seeking out a support group (online or in person). There are professional care providers that can help women cope with an HIV diagnosis during pregnancy and offer strategies for how to talk with partners about the diagnosis and safe sex.
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Assistance for Pregnant Women with HIV
Q: Are there any government assistance programs for HIV positive pregnant women?
A:
Yes, there are many supportive programs that women can qualify for that offer assistance. Housing, emotional/mental health support, financial assistance, transportation, medication, and medical care resources are available. All pregnant HIV positive women will be on medications for HIV during pregnancy. While these medications are costly, Medicaid and most private insurances cover the entire cost. If there is an uncovered cost, patients may be eligible for
ADAP
(Aids Drug Assistance Program) which can assist with HIV medication costs. Patients should speak with their Ryan White case manager or hospital social worker for help accessing services.
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Q: Are there any special case management programs available in Illinois?
A:
The Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initiative (PACPI) offers
enhanced perinatal HIV case management services
Illinois women requiring extra support. An enhanced case manager can work with you to link your client to a variety of services. PACPI case managers are available through the 24/7 Illinois Perinatal HIV Hotline at
1-800-439-4079
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Disclosure of HIV Status
Q: Does an HIV positive pregnant woman have to disclose her status to her partner?
A:
The laws vary from state to state, but in IllinoisHIV positive persons engaging in “intimate contact” with another person must disclose their HIV status. It is important to prepare the woman to have that discussion with her partner(s) and also to encourage the partners to get tested. Some women will prefer to disclose their status to their partners in the presence of a health care professional who can help answer questions.
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Testing of Partners and Other Children
Q: Is it important to arrange for testing of partners and other children?
A:
Many women will want their partners to get tested right away. The local health department or styleIllinois’ 1-800-AID-AIDS hotline can provide you with confidential HIV testing sites in your area. The testing of siblings should be addressed within the care plan developed. Local children’s hospitals are sensitive to the issues around HIV testing for siblings. A referral for a local resource for testing can be obtained through the 24/7 Illinois Perinatal HIV Hotline. The earlier HIV is diagnosed, whether in a partner or a child, the better the chances of a long and healthy life.
For more information see
www.TheBody.com
,
www.thewellproject.org
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