HIV Treatment
HIV, which stands for “human immunodeficiency virus,” attacks the cells that fight against infection. In other words, attacking the immune system and making a person more vulnerable to infections and diseases. If not treated, HIV can cause AIDS (“acquired immunodeficiency syndrome”). According to HIV.gov, approximately 1.2 million people in the United States have HIV, and around 13% are unaware of their HIV-positive status.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 gets tested for HIV at least once and high-risk individuals at least once a year.
YourTown Health HIV Prevention and Treatment Program
507 Park St.
Palmetto, GA 30268
Monday – Thursday
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tel: (770) 626–4033
At YourTown Health, we are committed to meeting patients where they are. We not only believe in affordable services, but quality and compassionate care throughout a patient’s healthcare journey. In addition to continued HIV testing at several office locations, our HIV Prevention and Treatment Program offers HIV services at reduced costs using the Sliding Fee Scale.
Upcoming Outreach Events
There are no events at this time. Check back soon for updates!
YourTown Health’s onsite team-based care of certified and trained specialists provide HIV prevention education, risk reduction counseling, PrEP and PEP access, and partner notification services. In conjunction with our HIV Prevention and Treatment Program, we offer:
- HIV testing at our Coweta and Fulton County locations (Palmetto, Palmetto QuickCare, and Senoia offices).
- Opt-out HIV screenings at all YourTown Health locations and clinics. Per this protocol, HIV and STD risk screenings are available for all medical visits, at reduced costs.
- Free at-home HIV tests available for pickup at our Palmetto and Senoia office locations. No appointment necessary.
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) preventative medications at reduced costs to those without prescription drug insurance coverage. Available through the YourTown Health Pharmacy.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) medications at reduced costs to those without prescription drug insurance coverage. Available through the YourTown Health Pharmacy.
The program also provides linkage to additional support services such as:
- Housing services
- Employment services
- Family and community services
- Food and utilities access
- Crisis support services
- Behavioral health services
Causes of HIV
Most commonly, HIV is transmitted through body fluids, such as when someone has unprotected sex or shares injection drug equipment.
Risk Factors of HIV
Anyone can become infected with HIV/AIDS. However, those considered “high-risk” include intravenous drug users (IDU); individuals who have had multiple partners since their last HIV test or have been in contact with a partner who is HIV positive; individuals who have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted disease (STD); and individuals who have been diagnosed with hepatitis and tuberculosis.
HIV Symptoms
Many people have reported flu-like symptoms within 2-4 weeks after infection. This can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Rash
- Night sweat
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Mouth ulcers
However, these symptoms do not necessarily indicate HIV. Many other illnesses—including the common cold—can cause these same symptoms. For this reason, health experts recommend getting tested to confirm your HIV status.
