Holy Cross Health has received a three-year grant from ViiV Positive Action Network to develop a support network for peers and professionals providing social services to people living with HIV/AIDS. Florida remains one of the highest states in the nation to report new cases of HIV and syphilis.
As cases continue to soar, the Holy Cross Health Community Health and Well-Being department continues its efforts to respond. Many individuals find themselves having to learn to navigate the complex and changing health care system. The Navigator Network newly funded by ViiV will offer quarterly in-person and monthly online meetings with the goal of bringing case managers, peers, community health workers and other client-facing specialists together to discuss resources, challenges and positive outcomes. Future endeavors supported by the grant also include an illustrated video series explaining Florida’s Ryan White care system, an online resource guide and Navigator Network Hub on Holy Cross’ website.
“This Network was established to ensure that there is a network of navigators working together across all systems to improve access to patient essentials including housing, food, medical care, medications, transportation, etc. As resources become scarcer, it is paramount that we work collaboratively,” said Tolulope Adeagbo, Community Linkage and Liaison Coordinator in Holy Cross’ Community Health and Well-Being department. “The health and welfare of our patients depend upon us sharing our expertise, building trust, networking, using collective intelligence and sharing the one goal that we all have in common – to improve the health and well-being of our patients.”
