Introduction
About the Institute of Population Health
The Institute of Population Health (IPH) is a public health institute that is acting in place of the former Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion. The mission of IPH is to advance positive health outcomes in populations and communities. IPH provides services in the areas of behavioral health, worksite health and wellness programs, specialized trainings, and community and consumer engagement which includes but is not limited to HIV counseling, testing and referral prevention.
HIV Prevalence in Detroit, Michigan
In 2011, an estimated 793 adults in Michigan, were diagnosed with HIV.1 69% of the diagnosis occurred in the men who have sex with other men (MSM) population.1 Detroit has the highest prevalence and incidence rate of HIV in the state of Michigan. In 2013, there were 5,700 people in Detroit living with HIV, 3,099 of which had the advanced stage of HIV known as AIDS.2 The MSM population accounts for 62% of diagnosed HIV cases in Detroit.2
Statement of Need, Purpose, and Rationale
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When taken consistently, PrEP is a powerful preventative tool and can reduce the risk of contracting HIV by up to 92%.3 Federal guidelines led by the Centers for Disease Control, recommend PreP for persons that are HIV negative and are at high risk for contracting HIV, such as men who have sex with men.3 PrEP is a powerful prevention tool, but it is expensive. Without insurance, PrEP costs $1300 a month.4 While most insurance providers cover part of the drug’s cost, some people are still faced with unaffordable co-pays.4 The high cost of Truvada is particularly troubling has HIV is an illness that most effects people of low socioeconomic