Sheela’s Journey
I am a single mother of two young kids. I got HIV in a relationship after their father and I separated. That was 3 years ago. When I found out I was positive, I got care for a while, but with raising two kids, I’ve got to worry about them, not me. But now, I feel it’s getting worse. I have to do something.
Journey
Medical Care
I lost my job because I needed to take care of my kids. I lost my insurance with my job. I heard I could be seen here and not be turned away. The HIV is always going to be there. The doctor said that he’s sure he can get me to a safe level. And he’d help me with my asthma, too.
Journey
HIV Case Management Services
I met Lucas, my case manager, after my appointment. He didn’t judge me for waiting to come in. And I feel like I can trust him to tell me what to do. What’s important is what I do now for my kids. He promised to help, and I believe him.
Journey
Housing Programs
Where me and my kids live, it’s just not good. It hasn’t been for a long time. Lucas took me downstairs to Kayla to help me find a better place to live. I can’t believe there could be a way out, somewhere to keep my kids safe.
Journey
Food Pantry & Nutrition
Lucas knows a lot about me. Like that I have a hard time keeping my kids from being hungry. He took me to the food pantry right down the hall. I can’t believe it. I can finally get care that I need and I am going to leave with two weeks of groceries to help feed my family.
Journey
Pharmacy
Before I left on that very first day, Lucas showed me where the pharmacy was. Just down another hall. I got medicine for the HIV symptoms and to help reduce the virus to a safe level. And an inhaler for my asthma. I feel so safe here.
Journey
Dental Care
I learned that I can even go to the dentist here. I haven’t been to one in like 10 years. Lucas encouraged me to make an appointment, that some of my problems could be helped. I can’t believe this. It is more than I ever thought. I feel better about myself than I have in so long.
Journey
Other Services: Legal Services, Behavioral Health Care and Prevention
Lucas showed me how to change my life after one day. The fact that getting care for my HIV means I can take better care of my kids, which is everything to me. I know I can also get help if I get depressed or need help with some legal questions. And help keeping the risk of HIV going any farther.
Journey
Continues
Vivent Health has a life-changing impact on our patients lives because we have all of the health care and support services under one roof AND because we encourage patients to use them. You’ve just had the opportunity to take a patient journey and experience our medical home model of care. Please choose a word that best describes your experience. We thank you in advance for your participation!