City of El Paso’s Public Health Department receives national award

Jocelyn Flores
·2 min read
City of El Paso’s Public Health Department receives national award

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso’s Public Health Department HIV, STD division was recognized as the “Best Organization Serving El Paso” during the 2024 National LatinX Conference on HIV, HCV and SUD, the City announced in a news release.

“This recognition is a reflection of our commitment to providing exceptional health services to the community,” said City-County Local Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza. “This award demonstrates the department’s dedication to serving residents by providing essential services, referrals and unwavering assistance to our community.”

The National Latinx Conference on HIV, HCV and SUD aims to bring awareness and information to Latinx populations about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C (HCV) and substance use disorder (SUD), according to the City.

The City’s HIV/STD division program offers the following services to the community:

  • HIV prevention services

    • Free confidential/anonymous HIV testing, confidential syphilis and hepatitis C testing.

    • After-hour testing is offered from 5 to 8 p.m. every third Wednesday of the month.

  • Linkage-to-care services

    • Free linkage-to-care services to people living with HIV and/or HCV that need a healthcare provider.

    • Free linkage-to-care services to people seeking healthcare providers/clinics who have PrEP/PEP services.

  • Housing opportunities for people living with AIDS (HOPWA)

    • The program offers safe and stable housing options for those living with AIDS with the following eligibility requirements:

      • People living with HIV who have experienced/are experiencing homelessness.

      • Must be HIV positive and residing within city limits.

      • Low income.

  • Condom distribution services

    • Free condoms and lubricants.

  • Monthly factor social networking

    • Social Networking group of gay/bisexual and queer-identified men:

      • Community building and outreach through fun social monthly events.

      • Monthly workshops focusing on healthy relationships and safer sex.

      • Safe space for the LGBTQIA community and opportunities to get involved in the community.

For more information and tips, you can visit their website here or call (915) 212-6665.

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