Through its HIV-VIP Linkage to Care Program the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) uses social media and outreach to promote community-based testing to hard-to-reach populations. This program also offers immediate linkage to one of 12 medical homes, which typically initiate care within 72 hours of diagnosis and use culturally competent HIV testers and care coordinators to support patients in choosing and transitioning to the medical home.
The program has enhanced access to testing for hard-to-reach populations, nearly doubled the proportion of newly diagnosed patients who are linked to care, and generated high levels of patient satisfaction.
