Overcoming stigma and shame leads to better health care

DAP Health Insights – Monday, June 7, 2021, from David Brinkman, CEO 

A forty year journey from fear to hope

A lot has changed since AIDS was first reported in 1981. Drugs have now made it possible to suppress viral loads to undetectable levels, which means HIV cannot be transmitted. Undetectable now equals un-transmittable.

The concept of U=U is the foundation of being able to end the HIV epidemic, Dr. Anthony Fauci says. Treatment as prevention combined with pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is turning the tide on new infections.

Embarrassment and shame keep many from getting health care

One of the lessons we’ve learned from the COVID-19 health crisis is shame—not cost or convenience—is causing too many people to avoid medical and mental health care. 

For example, feeling embarrassed over finances might keep someone from seeking help even when that care is free or low-cost. Discrimination—against the poor, LGBTQ individuals and racial minorities—also increases the likelihood people will avoid essential care.

To break down barriers, DAP Health is making it easier for people to ask for help. And DAP Health’s dedication to cultural humility has its caregivers leaning in to getting to know their patients, instead of assuming a one-size-fits-all approach works.

COVID-19 vaccine available to those over 12

COVID-19 vaccines are now available to everyone who is 12 and above. Three vaccines have been approved by the FDA. They are made by Pfizer-BioNTech (two doses), Moderna (two doses) and Johnson & Johnson (one dose). Each vaccine has been vigorously tested and deemed safe by the FDA.

If you are a DAP Health patient and want to get the vaccine, please be sure you are registered in MyChart. When DAP Health has available vaccines, you will receive a message via MyChart and will be able to set up an appointment. Or pre-register for a free vaccination today.