Together we can make a difference in fighting the spread of HIV. Our goal is to increase HIV testing in the Aiken community, link our HIV-positive patients to care and provide education on sexual health and safe sex. We are happy to answer any questions you have on HIV-related topics. RHS provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention, care, and support with a range of services under one roof. They include:
- Rapid HIV testing – appointment and walk-in hours
- PrEP, PEP, and ART medications
- HIV orientation – patients will receive one on one education and support to answer any questions about medical treatment and needed services like insurance coverage, government benefits, and more.
- Medication adherence counseling provides support and education about HIV infection, prescribed medications, and addressing any side effects.
- Methods to reduce risk- Our PCHP team can provide you with educational resources to practice safer sex habits and prevention methods.
- Mental Health: Individual counseling, psychotherapy, and annual psychosocial assessments with knowledgeable and sensitive mental health professionals.
- Patient Outreach: Assistance and referrals regarding benefits, insurance, housing, and referrals to other support services.
Meet Our HIV Navigator
Meet Grayson Ross, HIV Navigator. Grayson joined RHS in August 2022.
HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is the process when a person without HIV takes antiretroviral medications to prevent the acquisition of HIV. The goal of HIV PrEP is to prevent new HIV infections. Among people who take HIV PrEP medications as prescribed, the medications are more than 90% effective for preventing sexual acquisition of HIV and approximately 70% effective in preventing HIV acquisition among people who inject drugs.
Individuals exposed to a STI from a sexual partner should be seen by a medical provider for testing and treatment. Many patients are able to receive treatment for certain STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, before their lab results return. All recent sexual partners should be encouraged to get tested as well, if applicable.
DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken after sex to prevent sexual transmission of bacterial STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and mycoplasma genitalium. DoxyPEP, which is currently only recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, must be taken within 72 hours of a sexual encounter to be effective.
Call the SHC Hotline Number! You can reach us 803-859-9252 and you will be scheduled for an appointment to our clinical provider. Walk-ins are also welcome, but call-ins are preferred.