Your Health Matters! Our HIV Treatment Staff Cares

Discovering that you need Orlando HIV treatment can be overwhelming. Our caring staff is here to guide you to better health!

At Harmony Healthcare Orlando, our dedicated staff is committed to your well-being, providing personalized care and support. Your health truly matters to us, and we would be honored to be a part of your healthcare team. Let’s embark on your HIV treatment path together!

HIV Testing in Orlando

In the United States, the CDC estimates that approximately 1.2 million individuals live with HIV, around 158,500 people are unaware of their HIV status, and almost 40% of new HIV infections are caused by individuals who are unaware of their infection. 

Getting tested for HIV is crucial for your well-being and for preventing the transmission of the virus. The CDC recommends that sexually-active individuals get tested at least once and more often if they are at higher risk. 

You may need regular HIV testing if you fall into any of the following categories:

• Men who have had sexual intercourse with other men
• Individuals who have engaged in anal or vaginal sex with someone known to have HIV
• Those who have had multiple sexual partners since their last HIV test
• People who have shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
• Individuals who have exchanged sex for drugs or money
• Those who have been diagnosed with or treated for another sexually transmitted disease
• People who have been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis or tuberculosis
• Individuals who have had sexual intercourse with someone who falls into any of the above categories or whose sexual history is unknown to them

We want our community to have open and honest discussions about sexual and drug-use histories, disclose HIV status, and consider getting tested together before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner!

HIV Treatment

We want to address some common questions we get when we meet individuals needing HIV treatment.

How Is HIV Treated?

HIV is treated by a combination of drugs called antiretroviral therapy or ART. When taken regularly under the supervision of a healthcare provider, this type of treatment can successfully reduce the amount of HIV in your body within a few months. This treatment does not cure HIV; an individual with HIV can still transmit it and other STIs to a partner even if they are being treated – so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about options available to you and your partner(s)!

When Should You Start HIV Treatment?

If you test positive for HIV, you should begin treatment immediately. Even if you have been living with HIV for some time or seem healthy, starting immediately is the best way to get this infection under control. Make sure to discuss any other medications you’re taking with our Orlando HIV treatment staff before beginning HIV treatment.

Which Type Of Treatment Is Better? Pills Or Shots?

HIV treatment comes in two forms: pills and shots. For individuals who are just starting HIV treatment, pills are typically recommended. There is a wide range of FDA-approved single-pill and combination medications available. 

For those who have maintained an undetectable viral load for at least three months, an alternative to pills is the option of HIV treatment shots. Healthcare providers administer these long-acting injections during regular office visits. The frequency of these shots, either once a month or every other month, depends on your specific treatment plan. It is also possible to switch treatment from pills to shots under the close supervision of your healthcare provider.

Pros and Cons of HIV Treatment Pills:

• Pros:
  • Convenient for daily use
  • Wide range of FDA-approved options
  • Can be taken discreetly
  • Effective in reducing viral load when taken consistently
• Cons:
  • Requires daily commitment
  • Potential for side effects that need monitoring
  • May interact with other medications

Pros and Cons of HIV Treatment Shots:

• Pros:
  • Administered less frequently (monthly or bi-monthly)
  • Reduces the need for daily medication
  • Effective for patients with an undetectable viral load
• Cons:
  • Requires regular visits to the healthcare provider for administration
  • May cause injection site reactions
  • Limited to those who have maintained an undetectable viral load for at least three months

It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine which course of action best fits your needs.

Orlando HIV Treatment Doesn’t Have To Be Overwhelming

Seeking HIV treatment can be daunting. We can even discuss the roll of comparative genomics in HIV testing! Our team is here to take the fear out of the situation with our caring and compassionate staff of healthcare professionals. If you need testing or treatment for HIV or any other STIs, contact our team at Harmony Healthcare Orlando or stop by and say hello. We look forward to meeting you!