Anthony’s Journey
I’ve had quite a few relationships. Some women, some men. My current partner told me he got exposed to an STD. I decided to get tested. I think about STDs and I try to be safe. Safe as I can. Sometimes though, you know, you get wrapped up in the moment.
Journey
Prevention
I went in for a test. Next thing I know, I have HIV. My mind is racing, my heart is pounding. I just wanted to get out of there. To run. The woman, Emma, who gave me the results, calmed me down somehow. At least enough to help me understand what I can do from here.
Journey
Medical Care
Emma convinced me to stay and they rearranged schedules so I could see a doctor within an hour. He talked. He listened. He’s seen others’ reactions just like mine. It was calming when he assured me this wasn’t the end of my life as I knew it. I got lab work. I got reassurance.
Journey
HIV Case Management Services
Overwhelmed, shaking and feeling alone, I meet Rochelle who is going to help me get through this. She also makes me feel less afraid. She says I can lean on her. She is going to be my case manager. I don’t have insurance. She says I can get Medicaid and helps me fill out the forms. This is unreal.
Journey
Pharmacy
Rochelle takes me to the pharmacy. It’s just around the corner. They helped me with paperwork so I could get medicine to treat the HIV that day. While we were there, Rochelle asked if I needed help with food, a way to get here or living arrangements. And asked how I am doing with all this.
Journey
Housing Programs
I came back the next day to meet with Rochelle again. She’s already someone I can trust. I told her this just ended my living arrangement, and I don’t know what to do. She took me upstairs to meet with Jerome who said he’d help me find a safe place to stay. My life is upside down. I am struggling with this.
Journey
Behavioral Health Care
This has given me depression and the stigma I feel is so heavy. I don’t know if I can do this. Rochelle talks me into seeing Jada, a counselor, who I can see as I need to. It helps to know there are so many others like me and that they understand. I feel less on edge after seeing Jada.
Journey
Other Services: Food Pantry and Legal Services
My journey came suddenly and knocked the wind out of me. I am getting the care I need for now, but I know that if I struggle with food or don’t think I am being treated fairly by my landlord, I can get help.
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!