HIV Program In Cuyahoga County Gets Funding Boost

CLEVELAND — Cuyahoga County's HIV treatment program has received renewed funding through the Health Resources and Services Administration's Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

Cuyahoga County has been the only provider of local, in-home care for Ryan White program, which offers a comprehensive system of HIV primary medical care, support services, and medications for uninsured, low-income people living with HIV. The program is run through Cuyahoga's Division of Senior and Adult Services (DSAS) and is now fully funded for 2019.

“The goal is always to reduce viral loads in people living with HIV/AIDS. Viral load suppression results in a decreased likelihood of transmitting the HIV virus to an uninfected person,” said David Smith Jr., DSAS’ Director of Nursing. “The increased funding will help in DSAS’ effort to improve health outcomes and increase viral suppression rates in those clients living with HIV/AIDS.”

Cuyahoga County's funding was increased to $57,760 this year, an increase of 10-percent over last year. As part of the Ryan White program, Cuyahoga County is termed a Transitional Grant Area (TGA) — meaning it is one of the counties most affected by the HIV epidemic. As a result of this branding, Cuyahoga receives additional funding for a broader scope of services.

“I am pleased that our Division of Senior and Adult Services is part of this important program,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish. “This program serves as a significant source of care for those living with HIV disease who do not have sufficient resources to cope with the disease.”