Phoenix along with all of Arizona sees rise in HIV cases
Staff Reports | Community Updates
With the rise of new HIV cases in Arizona, access to testing and services is critical, which is why officials at city say the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities is making a $10,000 contribution to the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS Richard P. Stahl Client Care Fund.
The fund makes it possible for anyone to receive HIV services, regardless of their ability to pay, according to a press release.
The contribution was announced earlier this month at the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS’ Inspire event, whereas the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities grant enables the center to double its impact by encouraging a match, resulting in $20,000 raised toward the Richard P. Stahl Client Care Fund.
Phoenix city officials say this means 200 individuals who are unable to pay for services can now be covered for HIV serices. The Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS provides healthcare, including HIV/STI testing, mental healthcare, sexual and reproductive health services, gender affirming programs, and more for all members of the community, including LGBTQIA2s individuals.
“This contribution will help provide wider access to testing. It is critical to know your HIV status to empower yourself to either stay negative by taking preventative steps or by getting connected to effective care options if you test positive for HIV,” said Vice Mayor Debra Stark, co-chair of the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities Ad Hoc Committee. “Help is available, and the only HIV status you should fear is the unknown.”
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services HIV Surveillance 2023 Report, there was a 20 percent increase in new HIV diagnoses in 2022.
As part of the Fast-Track Cities global initiative, the Phoenix has the goal to end the HIV epidemic by the year 2030. To meet this goal, the City, along with partner organizations, are working toward these benchmarks:
- 95 percent of people who are living with HIV (PLHIV) knowing their status
- 95 percent of PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART)
- 95 percent of PLHIV on ART achieving viral suppression
Phoenix officials say the municipality aims to reach zero percent HIV stigma in the community by encouraging honest conversations about sexual health, prevention and testing, and retention in care to reach an undetectable and untransmittable status.
“Knowledge empowers us to protect ourselves and others. With this contribution, more people will have access to options to take control of their sexual health through prevention, testing, and care,” said Councilwoman Laura Pastor, co-chair of the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities Ad Hoc Committee. “HIV does not discriminate, and any one of us could be affected.”
