Programs & Services HIV Counseling, Testing & Referral
HIV Counseling, Testing & Referral Services
Between November, 2004 and June, 2010 Amethyst Women’s Project tested 3,404 persons for HIV. Of this total 135 were identified as “new” positives for an overall six-year seropositivity rate of 3.97% which would be among the highest rates of HIV infection in New York City. Although fewer women than men were tested during this period, the seropositivity rate among women tested was significantly higher than among men tested (4.8% vs. 3.4% respectively) demonstrating the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS among low-income women living in South Brooklyn communities of color.
Through June, 2010, the HIV Counseling, Testing and Referral (CTR) Services Program has targeted substance abusers, sex workers, adolescents, and the homeless; populations known to be at risk of HIV infection. The program has offered on-site and mobile HIV testing, HIV prevention workshops, pre and post test counseling, and referrals to substance abuse treatment and supportive services. A Program Coordinator has worked with two CTR Specialists who scheduled on site testing twice weekly and mobile van testing three nights a week. At least 500 persons are tested annually with test demand usually exceeding supply. The CTR Program provided direct services to an estimated 1,200 yearly and complemented the work of the Peer Outreach Education Program.