Testing

We offer confidential or anonymous testing at each of our clinic sites.  Individuals who test positive for HIV are referred for treatment at our clinic or through their private providers.  Partner notification and contact investigations are also conducted to identify and treat individuals who may have been exposed.  For information on HIV testing, call 941-639-1181 extension 2224, or Florida residents can send their zip codes to “46246” to receive information on the nearest HIV testing center. The service is free, though standard text-messaging fees apply.

Treatment

The Charlotte County Health Department offers HIV/AIDS treatment for eligible patients.  Services include medical visits, clinical counseling, lab work, and certain pharmaceuticals.   For more information on our HIV clinic services, call 941-639-1181 extension 2244.

Case Management

HIV/AIDS Case Managers act as liaisons between clients and organizations that provide services to people living with HIV/AIDS.  Clients must make an appointment for an initial screening to identify patient needs, determine which programs they are eligible for, and develop a care plan.  Case Managers follow clients through their care plan, making necessary modifications as patients’ needs change.   Some of the medical and social service programs clients may be enrolled in include:

• Ryan White Part II
• ADAP (AIDS Drug Assistance Program)
• HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS)
• PAC (Project AIDS Care)
• AICP (AIDS Insurance Continuation Program)
• Medical Care
• Dental Care
• Hospice care
• Mental Health Services
• Substance Abuse Services
• Support Groups

For information about case management services, call 941-639-1181 extension 2260.

HIV/AIDS Health Education and Prevention

Charlotte County Health Department’s (CCHD) HIV/AIDS Health Education staff work as part of the Disease Control and Prevention team.  Our staff have been recognized as leaders in education on HIV/AIDS and strive to reach out to the community to encourage the prevention of illness.  The HIV/AIDS health educators also raise awareness about HIV/AIDS-related services available in Charlotte County and help individuals choose and maintain healthier lifestyles.  By providing educational services and partnering with community agencies throughout Charlotte County, CCHD works to reduce the number of new HIV infections.

Our offices are located at:
514 East Grace Street
Punta Gorda, Florida 33950

For more information call the Health Educator at
(941) 639 1131 Ext 2212.

HIV/AIDS CEU’s for professionals in Florida:

Many professions in the State of Florida require that certified staff maintain ongoing HIV/AIDS training and CEU’s. The details on required training hours and CEU’s ( .doc / 503.5kb )by profession can also be found here.

For on-line CEU’s and opportunities for HIV/AIDS training go to:

www.onlinece.net/pickdiscipline.asp
www2a.cdc.gov/ce/availableactivities.asp
www.faetc.org/Online/