Iris House offers different programs to help individuals infected and/or at risk adopt risk-reducing behaviors.

The Counseling and Testing component will provide OraQuick Rapid Testing to high-risk individuals in East and Central Harlem. HIV pre/post test counseling will be provided to all individuals tested.  All tests will be conducted in a confidential and respectful environment.

The FDA has approved the OraQuick Advance HIV Antibody test for use with oral fluid.  The test is designed to detect the antibodies created by the HIV virus once in the person’s body.

Is the OraQuick test a saliva test? No. The test uses oral fluids, which is slightly different from saliva.  To perform the test, the person being tested for HIV gently swabs the device completely around the outer gums, both upper and lower one time.

The OraQuick oral test is 99.3% accuracy.

What is the process to HIV rapid testing? First, the test is initiated with HIV screening and conducted by one of our certified testers to assess the person’s HIV exposure , followed by actual collection of the specimen.  This process make take 20 minutes.

After the 20 minutes, results may be: Negative, no HIV antibodies were found.  Counselor will guide the person on how to stay HIV negative. Positive, active HIV antibodies were found.  Counselor will address ways for the person to get the necessary help. Inconclusive, further test are recommended.  This may be because of other factors antivenin in test i.e. (flu).

Harm Reduction Program will focus on recovery readiness and preparing an HIV+ individual to make the changes that will reduce the harm of substance abuse.  This initiative is supported by individual counseling sessions focused on reducing HIV risk behavior of substance users. Harm Reduction and AOD support groups will also assist in their treatment. Assessment for STI’s will also be conducted.

Co-Factor Program is an initiative focused on two co-factors depression and substance misuse/abuse.  Individuals will be screened for depression and substance abuse. Referrals and follow ups will be administered for individuals whose screening results are positive for depression and/or substance abuse. Post cards with mental health and substance abuse treatment information will be given to all.

Teen Workshops are held quarterly with the focus on prevention.  HIV 101 presentation and condom demonstrations are conducted to enhance the participant's awareness of HIV/AIDS.  A short film or two pertaining to HIV/AIDS are shown to spark conversation between the facilitator and students.  The workshops are interactive and allow the participants to express their thoughts in a nonjudgmental environment.

 

The goal of the Condom Distribution Program is to have condoms, female condoms and lubricants easily accessible to the community.  Condoms are available for free at both Iris House Locations and at local beauty salon and barber shops in East and Central Harlem.  The Community Outreach Workers also conduct outreach at targeted locations and disseminate sex kits and HIV/AIDS educational literature.