The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program provides a comprehensive system of primary care and support services for people living with HIV who are uninsured or underinsured.

The program includes an outpatient center for the care and treatment of HIV/AIDS infection in adults 16 and older. The program works with people regardless of sexual orientation, race, or ability to pay.

Physicians with the program are faculty members of Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, a part of Rutgers University, one of the top research institutions in America. Our doctors are active in clinical research and in teaching about all aspects of HIV and infectious diseases. Each brings life-changing knowledge from the classroom to the exam room.

The Ryan White program includes the following services.

Anal Cancer Screening Program

Routine anal cancer screening is available as part of HIV primary care. We offer high-resolution anoscopy with biopsy to detect and diagnose anal precancerous lesions, and in-office treatment (ablative or medical therapy) to patients with anal dysplasia or precancerous lesions.

Financial Counseling

Our financial counselors can help patients understand what financial assistance is available. Counselors will screen patients for eligibility in such programs as Medicaid, AIDS Drugs Distribution Program (ADDP), Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged and Disabled (PAAD), Medicare, NJ Family Care, and various charity care programs.

Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy

Gender-affirming hormone therapy is available for transgender persons. The therapy we provide follows guidelines from the World Professional Association of Transgender Health, and is part of a holistic approach to wellness and preventive medicine.

Hepatology Referrals

Our physicians can refer Ryan White patients for screening, treatment, and referrals of complex liver diseases by a board-certified hepatologist.

LIGHT Program

The Linking Individuals to Get HIV Treatment (LIGHT) program is available for new patients and those returning to care. Our staff works with patients to address any financial and/or psychosocial barriers and helps patients understand treatment. The LIGHT program provides:

• Health education and adherence counseling 
• Nutrition counseling
• Primary care with an assigned HIV specialist 
• Social services-case management for housing/shelter and resource assistance 

Medical Case Management

Our medical case managers can help solve some of the daily challenges of living with HIV. This includes protecting yourself and others from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), managing medications, and dealing with depression and anxiety.
 
Medical case managers will help determine if you are eligible for programs that cover the following areas:

• Dental care
• Financial and income benefits
• Food
• Housing
• Insurance for doctor visits and prescription drugs
• Mental health care and addiction treatment
• Support groups
• Transportation

Mental Health

The Rutgers Health Ryan White program has two full-time mental health/substance abuse clinicians and a psychiatrist who is on site once per week.

Smoking Cessation

Clients can receive smoking cessation counseling and medication therapy. Individual counseling sessions on strategies to quit smoking are also available.

Substance Abuse Counseling/Suboxone Program

We have a mental health/substance abuse clinician and a physician licensed to prescribe treatment with buprenorphine and naloxone (trade name Suboxone) on site. 

Support Groups

HIV patients can receive education and encouragement in a private and confidential environment. Haitian, Hep C, Hispanic, Men Having Sex with Men (MSM), and Women’s support groups meet monthly. 

Women’s Health Program

Board-certified gynecologists are available for screening, treatment, management, and referrals for gynecological problems and STDs.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS program also hosts an oral health program, consumer advisory board, and research community advisory board.

If you or a loved one is facing HIV and related issues, make an appointment with the Rutgers Health Ryan White program.