2017 Highlights
We are pleased to share highlights on major initiatives at Desert AIDS Project in 2017. As a humanitarian organization focused on the health and well-being of our community, the accomplishments revealed here reflect the commitment of our community, our generous donors, grantors, and of course, our dedicated staff.
Ongoing Commitment to 90-90-90
We remain steadfast in our commitment to 90-90-90, the method to end the HIV epidemic, even though there is no cure or vaccine. We need to ensure that 90 percent of people living with HIV know that they have HIV. Second is getting people into care and ensuring that 90 percent of people living with HIV have access to HIV medications. And lastly is ensuring that 90 percent achieve viral load suppression.
David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project
Continued Growth of the Hepatitis Center of Excellence – Addressing a Silent Killer
Hepatitis C threatens to burden the healthcare system with advanced liver disease-related complications, unnecessary suffering and death. Especially at risk are baby boomers, born between 1945 and 1965—they are supposed to be tested at least once. At D.A.P., it is very easy for us to cure them. The medicines are extremely well tolerated and only take between 8 and 12 weeks to be effective.
Dr. Shubha Kerkar, Director of the Hepatitis Center of Excellence
Better Patient Experience
D.A.P. engaged a consulting firm to help us focus on ways to improve our patient experience. The initiative enhanced teamwork among all levels of clinicians by increasing communication between members of the team, including the ancillary staff, and helped our providers provide better care. Patient satisfaction is increasing as wait times are also being reduced.
Carol Wood, Director of Clinical Administration
Get Tested Coachella Valley
Through Get Tested, D.A.P.’s Community Health department increased the number of testing sites and shortened client waiting times to acquire PrEP and PeP therapy. We also shortened the amount of time it takes someone living with HIV to get into care at Desert AIDS Project. With prevention, early detection, and linkage to care, Get Tested and D.A.P. saved the community millions of dollars.
Bruce Weiss, Director of Community Health