How VNA Health Helps with HIV Prevention and Treatment

Receiving a diagnosis of HIV is life changing. However, HIV is not the death sentence it once was. There are new treatment options that allow people with HIV to live long and productive lives. In fact, there are over 1 million HIV positive people living today in the United States.

If you or someone you love is HIV positive, rest assured that you are not alone and you do have options. One of your options for care is through Prevention Resource Network (PRN). Below we share more information about this type of care and how it helps people affected by HIV.

What is Prevention Resource Network?

Prevention Resource Network provides onsite services for individuals at risk for contracting HIV, as well as those living with HIV. The goal is to reduce high-risk behaviors that can transmit and spread the infection, as well as address behavioral and psychological needs for improved health outcomes.

Here are some of the services offered by the Prevention Resource Network in New Jersey:

Rapid HIV testing via mobile unit

HIV rapid testing is a free, confidential service. Results are provided in 20 minutes. If your results come back positive, PRN provides immediate counseling and access to treatments and medications. The mobile rapid testing unit travels through Monmouth County and Northern Ocean County.

HIV prevention services

Some people are at a higher risk for contracting HIV, such as gay and bisexual men. Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is an HIV prevention method that requires HIV-negative people to take one pill a day to prevent the infection. PRN provides everyone with a PrEP counselor and individualized treatment plan.

Individual and group counseling

An HIV diagnosis is a frightening experience, but you are not alone. PRN offers different types of counseling for people affected by HIV. For example, individual counseling gives you the opportunity to talk one-on-one with a licensed counselor. Group counseling introduces you to others with the same diagnosis.

Assistance with medical care and medications

PRN can assist with treatment and medication. There are even medications you can take to reduce your risk for contracting HIV. Medications have come a long way and have fewer side effects, so it’s important to explore your options for healthy living.

Condom distribution

This is self-explanatory, but PRN wants people to know that safe sex is the best sex. Pick up free polyurethane or latex condoms from PRN. They are highly effective in preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

An HIV diagnosis is scary, but remember that there are many ways to manage this disease and maintain a good quality of life. To learn more about HIV treatment and prevention, visit the Prevention Resource Network or VNA Health Group by calling 800-947-0020.