In recognition of National HIV Testing Day, Loretto Hospital is offering free HIV testing and STI (sexually transmitted infection) screenings to uninsured or underinsured people throughout the month of June.
While the total number of Chicagoans diagnosed with HIV or AIDS w\\is the lowest in four decades, non-Hispanic Blacks represented a disproportionate 50 percent of all new cases.
“Free testing is a first step in ensuring members of our community living with or vulnerable to HIV have access the healthcare services they need, including the medication regimen that treats HIV and leads to viral suppression,” said Carlos Zambrano, MD, chief medical officer for Loretto Hospital and an infectious disease specialist. “Viral suppression means these individuals can live a high-quality life with reduced risk of passing HIV to others.”
Beyond HIV, the free program will include screening for other STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, all of which, according to a Chicago Department of Public Health report, are on the rise, especially among younger Chicagoans.
Free HIV testing and STI screening services are available, both by walk-in and appointment, for those who qualify. For more information or to schedule a screening, call at (833) TLH-LOVE or visit https://www.lorettohospital.org.