HIV/AIDS in Greater Nashville
Almost 7,000 HIV/AIDS cases reported since 1982 (through 2009) Almost 4,900 living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Nashville o These are reported cases; actual number may be 20% higher (5,900) 320 new HIV cases in 2009; 400 new HIV and AIDS cases. Greater Nashville has 31% of state cases New HIV Infections: 50% African American, 7% Hispanic Women are 20% of new HIV cases; 75% of women are African American Men who have sex with men (MSM) are 48% of new HIV infections 14% of new HIV infections under age 25 and 34% over age 44 (6% 55+) 22% of those living with HIV/AIDS were diagnosed concurrently with AIDS and HIV infection and 7% were diagnosed with AIDS within 1 year of their HIV diagnosis—showing a need for earlier diagnosis and linkage to care.
The HIV/AIDS Safety Net in Greater Nashville
The state safety net is augmented by $4.6 million in RW Part A funds to the Greater Nashville MSA (“TGA”) for HIV/AIDS care and services. In 2009, more than 3,000 low-income people with HIV/AIDS received medical care and services through these funds. Of these, 780 did not receive state-funded services. Services included linkage to care/treatment, primary medical and dental care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, transportation, food, rent and utility payments, case management, and other supportive services. Almost 600 individuals also received life-saving HIV medications and help following their treatment regimens and more than 600 received assistance with health insurance and medical/prescription co-pays. Recipients were 45% African American, 4% Hispanic, 27% women. As a result, people with HIV/AIDS were able to live healthier lives with their families in their home communities.