Dr. Jacqueline Spence-Thompson possesses over 20 years of experience in the medical field. She has earned five academic degrees and a post-graduate certification. She began with a BS in Biological Sciences from Florida State University, followed by two degrees from the University of Central Florida (BS in Medical Laboratory Sciences and a BS in Nursing). Additionally, she holds a Master of Science in Nursing from South University, a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Aspen University, and a Post-Graduate Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Purdue Global University.
Dr. Spence-Thompson is an esteemed member of several professional organizations, including the Florida Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. She is double board certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her extensive clinical background includes an evolution through roles such as Medical Technologist in the hospital laboratory, nursing positions in Cardiac and Neuro PCU, as well as Newborn Nursery/Postpartum care. Her path led to her current role as a practicing DNP in urgent care, primary care, and HIV. She holds licensure as a Clinical Laboratory Supervisor in the state of Florida and a Registered Nurse in 41 states, including California. She is also licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in North Carolina with autonomous practice licensure in Florida.
In March of 2025, Dr. Spence-Thompson joined the team at CAN Community Health Orlando office. She is a passionate advocate for her patients in the promotion of overall health and wellness.
Jessica Chu, MPH, PA-C, grew up in Greenville, MS. She made her way to Texas to attend Southern Methodist University and graduated in 2015 Cum Laude with a degree in Biological Sciences. She graduated in 2017 with a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Texas Health Science Center and then went on to earn her Master of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in 2019.
She is credentialed by the American Academy of HIV Medicine as an HIV Specialist. Jessica strives to provide open, collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based care to her patients. Her interests include community advocacy and education, HIV medicine, disease prevention, and chronic care management. In her free time, she enjoys international travel, cooking, trying new restaurants, rose gardening, and spending time with her cat and two rat terriers.
Nicki Casado is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from State College of Florida. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from the University of South Florida.
Before joining CAN, Nicki worked for many years as a bedside registered nurse in specialty units including medical-surgical, cardiac-telemetry, neurology/stroke, and COVID care. She is an active member of the Florida Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, and the American Academy of HIV Medicine.
Nicki’s path to healthcare began in a very different field—she previously investigated money laundering and financial crimes for a large bank. Today, she brings the same attention to detail and dedication to her work in helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
Outside the clinic, Nicki enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband and children, and raising butterflies.
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, 2023
Master Of Science In Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner – Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Fl., May 2023
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Nova Southeastern University, Fort-Lauderdale, Fl., May 2015
Family Nurse Practitioner – Midland Medical Center
Emergency Department – Memorial Hospital Miramar-7 years
Labor and Delivery- Memorial Hospital Miramar-2 years
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Registered Nurse (RN)
American Association of Nurse Practioners – FNP-C
Masters of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner 2023, Master of Science in Nursing – University of Miami – August 2023, Bachelor of Science in Nursing – University of Central Florida – May 2021, Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences – University of Central Florida – May 2019
Midland Medical Center – Nurse Practitioner
CAN Community Health South Beach – PrEP RN
Jackson Memorial Hospital – CVICU RN
American Association of Nurse Practitioners – Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Association of Nurses in AIDS Care – AIDS Certified Registered Nurse
American Association of Critical Care Nurses – Certified Critical Care RN
American Nurses Association – Member
APRN – Florida Registered Nurse – Florida
Board Certification in Family Medicine, 2018 – 12/31/2026. American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice
Nova Southeastern College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; D.O., July 2014Danville Regional Medical Center (DRMC), Danville, Virginia; Physician-Intern, (August 2014 – September 2015).Westchester General Hospital, Miami, Florida; Family Medicine Resident-Physician, (July 2016 – June 30, 2018)
Midland Medical Center, Oakland Park, Florida; Family Medicine Physician, (December 2023 – Present)
Multiple 2-3 month short-term traveling assignments as FM physician in Florida and Maine, (June 2022 – Nov. 2023)
Memorial Hospital Gulfport Physician Clinic, Diamondhead, Mississippi; Family Medicine Physician, (May 2021 – May 2022)
Multiple 2-3 month short-term traveling assignments as FM physician in California and Mississippi, (June 2020 – April 2021)
Whole Family Health Center, Fort Pierce, Florida; Family Medicine-Physician, (February 2019 – April 2020)
Magnolia Primary Care, Corinth, Mississippi; Family-Medicine physician, (July 2018 – December 2018)
Active medical licensure in Florida, Maine, Mississippi, Texas and California
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – Family Nurse Practitioner, American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) – Nurse Practitioner
Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor in Nursing Practice
Family nurse practitioner – Midland Medical Center
Adjunct Faculty – Nova Southeastern University
Pre-op, PACU – Registered Nurse
Medical Surgical – Registered Nurse
Emergency Department – Registered Nurse
Registered NurseFamily Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Silverman is a nationally certified physician assistant. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston in South Carolina and her Master of Medical Science from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
She holds certifications in Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support from the American Heart Association. Hannah is also certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants.
Dr. Stephen A. Renae, M.D., has been practicing in Florida since 1993. In November 2010, he founded Infections Managed, INC after many rewarding years of group practice. Infections Managed is now part of CAN Community Health, where Dr. Renae continues to provide exceptional care. Serving patients by diagnosing, guiding them through the complex medical system, or providing a listening ear during difficult times has always been his goal.
Dr. Renae describes his practice as focused on treating infectious diseases using the latest technologies to deliver a patient-centered experience. The approach embraces a holistic view that considers mind, body, emotion, and spirit.
Nicole Ennis joined the CAN Community Health Board of Directors in 2025 and currently serves on the Quality Care Committee. With a background rooted in behavioral science and a strong commitment to advancing real-world impact through research, she brings valuable expertise to CAN’s mission.
Dr. Ennis currently serves on the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Grant Review Committees and has previously contributed to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grant Review Committees and the American Psychological Association’s Continuing Education Committee. Her service on these national platforms reflects her dedication to advancing health outcomes through informed, evidence-based practices.
She holds a Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and both a Master’s and PhD from Kent State University. She is currently an Associate Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Behavioral Science and Social Medicine at Florida State University.
CAN Community Health is proud to have Dr. Ennis as part of our board leadership, where her experience and insight help guide the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care.
Dr. Archer E. Grimley is a dedicated and compassionate family medicine physician based in Las Vegas, Nevada. They earned their medical degree from the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and completed their residency in Family Medicine at Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital/University of California (San Francisco). Identifying as queer and nonbinary, Dr. Grimley uses they/them pronouns and brings a unique and inclusive perspective to patient care. Dr. Grimley is a credentialed HIV Specialist (AAHIVS) and offers comprehensive primary care services to patients of all ages, all genders, and of all lifestyles. They have a particular passion for and specialized expertise in serving the 2SLGBTQIA+/queer community and provide primary care and hormone therapy in addition to full-scope primary care.
Vincenzo Scotto, MD, an Infectious Disease Specialist with Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center and Health First’s Palm Bay Hospital.
Dr. Scotto is a board-certified infectious disease specialist whose areas of special focus include HIV care, Staphylococcal infections, and prosthetic joint infections.
Currently, he is affiliated with Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center and Health First’s Palm Bay Hospital.
He came to Health First Medical Group in Melbourne, Florida from Kent General Hospital in Dover, Delaware, where he was an Infectious Disease Consultant. He has also worked at Christiana Care Health Services located in Georgetown, Delaware, where he served as the Medical Director for the HIV wellness clinic.
With a broad educational background, Dr. Scotto earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he made the Dean’s List. He obtained his Master of Science degree in Biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey, where he made the Dean’s List, won the Columbia Award, and was granted a Scholarship for Literature. He then earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica, where he made the Dean’s List and was a High Honors Graduate.
Furthering his training, he completed his medical internship at Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as well as his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in infectious diseases at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Brunswick, New Jersey.
Licensed to practice medicine in Florida, Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey, he is board-certified in internal medicine and infectious disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). The ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit, independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.
Among his professional affiliations, Dr. Scotto is an active member of the Infectious Disease Society of America, the Infectious Diseases Society of New Jersey, the American Society of Microbiologists, and the American College of Physicians.
During the start of a successful growth spurt in 2016 and onwards, Hemali Joshi joined CAN Community Health (CAN) as a Pharmacy Compliance Manager to help oversee the compliance of the 340B Program.
"With a knack for data, analytics, and technology, I had a vision to help non-profit organizations revolutionize healthcare in the community," said Joshi. "The potential of data to change the healthcare industry is tremendous, from recognizing patient behaviors, socio-economic barriers, health outcomes, and driving strategic business decisions."
CAN is a healthcare non-profit organization that aims to empower wellness through compassion, community, and equity. As a manager, Joshi spearheaded initiatives to accelerate 340B compliance auditing practices, assisting in revenue growth and expansion, and initiatives to launch a data team, quality care team, and a robust auditing/compliance team at CAN. She soon found herself leading the organization's data analytics team, 340B compliance team, and quality team, and later in 2022-2023, she also led the Insurance Assistance Program and IT teams.
With each success, Joshi moved from a manager to a director role, vice president, and, as of spring 2022, as a senior vice president and chief data officer. Her efforts have led to recognition as Tampa's chief information officer of the year in 2023, and a TBBJ 40 under 40 honoree in 2023. She has also been recognized for two years in a row as one of Tampa's top 25 healthcare technology leaders.
"Within the organization, I've led initiatives such as implementing analytics solutions to assist with daily auditing leading to the identification of additional revenue opportunities, resulting anywhere between 5% to 10% growth in revenue year-over-year," said Joshi. "Through the implementation of population health management initiatives and review of patient health outcomes, we have reported improved health outcomes year-over-year, leading to increased incentives and patient satisfaction."
According to Joshi, successful leaders today must embody attributes such as visionary thinking, effective communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence, integrity, empowerment, strategic thinking, resilience, decisiveness, and innovation.
"Visionary thinking is crucial as it allows leaders to set a clear direction and inspire their teams and staff toward achieving long-term goals," said Joshi. "Adaptability is vital in the fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, enabling leaders to pivot strategies and embrace innovation. Integrity is the bedrock of leadership, ensuring that decisions are made ethically and transparently, thus earning respect and loyalty from employees and partners."
By Kal Gajraj, Ph.D. – Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, CAN Community Health
Dec 10, 2024
For over three decades, CAN Community Health has been a cornerstone in the fight against HIV/AIDS, empowering individuals and transforming communities. With an unwavering commitment to compassionate care, equitable access and innovative solutions, CAN is not just participating in the effort to end the HIV epidemic — it is leading it.
Breaking barriers with comprehensive care
CAN Community Health provides holistic, patient-centered services that address the diverse needs of individuals living with or affected by HIV. By combining cutting-edge medical treatments with supportive services such as mental health counseling, housing assistance and nutritional guidance, CAN ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique circumstances.
“Our goal is to treat the whole person, not just the diagnosis,” says Dr. Steven K. Barnett, AAHIVS, senior vice president and chief medical officer at CAN Community Health. “We strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and supported.”
Expanding access through innovation
One of CAN’s standout achievements is its ability to meet people where they are, both figuratively and literally. Through mobile clinics, telehealth services and community-based outreach programs, CAN is bridging gaps in care, particularly for underserved populations.
CAN’s mobile health units bring testing, treatment and prevention services directly to communities with limited access to health care. These units are instrumental in reaching at-risk populations, breaking down barriers such as transportation challenges and stigma.
Prioritizing prevention to stop HIV in its tracks
Prevention is a cornerstone of CAN’s mission to end the epidemic. The organization offers free or low-cost HIV testing, access to PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and educational initiatives that empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
By promoting awareness and providing the tools necessary for prevention, CAN is working to reduce new HIV infections nationwide.
Championing equity and inclusivity
CAN Community Health recognizes that the HIV epidemic disproportionately affects certain communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color and those facing economic hardships. The organization is deeply committed to addressing these inequities through culturally competent care, advocacy and partnerships with local organizations.
“Our work is rooted in equity,” says Marlon Pittman, senior vice president and chief operating officer at CAN Community Health. “We believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances.”
A vision for the future
CAN Community Health is a proud partner of the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative, which aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. Through collaboration with government agencies, health care providers and community organizations, CAN is at the forefront of this national effort.
“Ending the HIV epidemic is not just a dream —I t’s a goal within our reach,” says Rishi Patel, PharmD, MBA, AAHIVP, president and chief executive officer at CAN Community Health. “With advancements in treatment, prevention and education, we have the tools to make it happen. Now, it’s about ensuring everyone has access to these resources.”
Join the movement
As a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, CAN Community Health invites individuals, businesses and organizations to join its mission. Whether through volunteering, donating or spreading awareness, every effort helps bring us closer to a world free from HIV.
For more information about CAN Community Health and its programs, call 844-922-2777 or visit www.cancommunityhealth.org. Together, we CAN end the epidemic.
SOURCE: Tampa Bay Business Journal, [link]
In the realm of healthcare organizations dedicated to battling HIV/AIDS, CAN Community Health stands out as a beacon of hope and progress. Founded in 1991, CAN has evolved into a powerhouse in the fight against this enduring global health crisis. With a mission centered on compassionate care, education, and advocacy, CAN Community Health has become a vital force in ending HIV.
At the core of CAN’s identity is its unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive care to all individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Regardless of background or financial status, CAN ensures that everyone receives the support and services they need. This inclusivity is not just a slogan; it’s a guiding principle that permeates every aspect of CAN’s operations.
One of the key strengths of CAN Community Health is its holistic approach to healthcare. Beyond medical treatment, CAN offers a wide range of services aimed at improving the overall well-being of its patients. This includes mental health support, and assistance with accessing and navigating vital resources such as housing and transportation. By addressing the diverse needs of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, CAN empowers individuals to lead healthy lives.
Education plays a crucial role in CAN’s strategy to combat HIV/AIDS. Through outreach programs, workshops, and community events, CAN raises awareness about prevention, testing, and treatment options. By dispelling myths and misconceptions, CAN fosters a more informed and supportive environment for those affected by HIV/AIDS. Moreover, CAN’s emphasis on education extends to healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver stigma-free, high-quality care.
Advocacy is another cornerstone of CAN’s mission. CAN Community Health actively engages with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to advocate for policies that support individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This includes advocating for affordable healthcare, increased funding for research and treatment, and initiatives to reduce stigma and discrimination. By amplifying the voices of those affected by HIV/AIDS, CAN drives meaningful change at local, national, and international levels.
One of CAN’s most significant achievements is its role in advancing HIV/AIDS research and innovation. Through partnerships with leading research institutions such as Moffitt Cancer Center and pharmaceutical companies, CAN contributes to the development of new treatments and therapies. This commitment to innovation ensures that patients have access to cutting-edge medical advancements, improving outcomes and quality of life.
CAN Community Health’s impact extends far beyond the walls of its clinics. Through community engagement and collaboration, CAN fosters a sense of belonging and support for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Events such as awareness walks, and support groups bring people together, creating a network of solidarity and empowerment.
The success of CAN Community Health is a testament to the dedication and passion of its staff, volunteers, and supporters. Their tireless efforts have transformed lives and made significant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS. However, challenges remain, including disparities in access to care, stigma, and the ongoing quest for a cure. CAN continues to push forward, guided by its unwavering commitment to ending HIV/AIDS once and for all.
As we reflect on CAN Community Health’s legacy and impact, it is clear that the journey towards ending HIV/AIDS is a collective endeavor. It requires collaboration, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice and equality. With CAN Community Health leading the charge, and by working together with other organizations, we can envision a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a threat, but a chapter in history overcome through resilience and unity.
SOURCE: OutClique Magazine, [link]
By: Katy Wendel, MHA, BSN, RN, CENP, ACRN
When hurricanes hit Florida, the spotlight is often on the devastation—damaged homes, flooded streets, and downed power lines. However, there is another story that rarely makes headlines yet plays out in hospitals and community health centers across the state: the extraordinary resilience of nurses. As the winds howl and rain pours, these healthcare professionals remain steadfast, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us continue to receive care, even as their own lives hang in uncertainty. In times of crisis, nurses often go above and beyond, ensuring that patients and clinics are ready for whatever may come. Whether preparing supplies, creating contingency plans, or staying extra hours to ensure everyone’s safety, their dedication is unmatched.
Take, for instance, the nurses at CAN Community Health, where they care for individuals living with HIV. During hurricanes like Milton, which recently struck Sarasota and the surrounding areas, these nurses do everything in their power to protect life-sustaining antiretroviral medications. Without these drugs, patients risk dangerous interruptions in treatment, which could compromise their health in the long term. These nurses work tirelessly to safeguard medication supplies, coordinating with pharmacies and insurance companies, even as roads close and power is lost. They ensure that their patients continue receiving the care they need—no matter the obstacles in their way.
This effort reflects the broader role nurses play during hurricanes. In hospitals, nurses face their own set of challenges when hurricanes approach. They often stay on-site for days, working through extended shifts to care for their patients. Many of them leave behind families and homes, not knowing if the storm will destroy everything they have built. Nevertheless, they remain on the front lines as healthcare providers and as lifelines for those who need them most. From planning ahead to being on the front lines when emergencies hit, our nurses play an indispensable role in keeping our community safe, healthy, and cared for. The extra steps they take—from securing medications to coordinating with local emergency teams—are a true testament to their compassion and commitment.
The toll on these nurses is immense. Research shows that prolonged disaster work leads to stress, fatigue, and emotional strain (Nix & Caldwell, 2018). However, nurses consistently rise to the challenge, driven by a solid duty to their patients and communities. Studies also show that having a sense of purpose and the support of colleagues helps them persevere (Gillespie, Chaboyer, & Wallis, 2007).
Florida’s nurses are, without question, some of the most resilient professionals in healthcare. From community health settings like CAN Community Health to large hospital systems, their ability to continue delivering care under extreme circumstances is a testament to their strength and commitment. It is time we recognized the role they play—not just as healthcare providers but as pillars of our community during Florida’s most challenging times.
The next time a hurricane looms, remember this: while the storm may be fierce, the spirit of Florida’s nurses is fiercer. They are quiet heroes who ensure that our healthcare system endures, no matter the storm. They deserve our admiration, gratitude, and unwavering support. By recognizing the extra effort they put in—from planning to recovery—we can better appreciate the critical part nurses play in keeping our healthcare systems strong and ready for whatever comes next.
Katy Wendel is a nursing executive with over 20 years of experience in HIV care, behavioral health, and emergency services. She leads innovative, nurse-led models at CAN Community Health and is dedicated to advancing nursing leadership, mentoring, and improving healthcare access for underserved populations.
Gillespie, B. M., Chaboyer, W., & Wallis, M. (2007). Development of a theoretically derived model of resilience through concept analysis. Contemporary Nurse, 25(1-2), 124-135.
Nix, M., & Caldwell, D. (2018). Natural disasters: A Louisiana gulf perspective of maintaining patient care. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 22(4), 460–463. https://doi.org/10.1188/18.CJON.460-463
SOURCE: Florida Nurses Association, [link]
For over three decades, CAN Community Health has been a cornerstone in the fight against HIV/AIDS, empowering individuals and transforming communities. With an unwavering commitment to compassionate care, equitable access, and innovative solutions, CAN is not just participating in the effort to end the HIV epidemic — it is leading it.
Breaking Barriers with Comprehensive Care
CAN Community Health provides holistic, patient-centered services that address the diverse needs of individuals living with or affected by HIV. By combining cutting-edge medical treatments with supportive services such as mental health counseling, housing assistance, and nutritional guidance, CAN ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique circumstances.
“Our goal is to treat the whole person, not just the diagnosis,” says Steven K. Barnett, MD, AAHIVS, Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at CAN Community Health. “We strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and supported.”
Expanding Access Through Innovation
One of CAN’s standout achievements is its ability to meet people where they are, both figuratively and literally. Through mobile clinics, telehealth services, and community-based outreach programs, CAN is bridging gaps in care, particularly for underserved populations.
CAN’s mobile health units bring testing, treatment, and prevention services directly to communities with limited access to healthcare. These units are instrumental in reaching at-risk populations, breaking down barriers such as transportation challenges and stigma.
Prioritizing Prevention to Stop HIV in Its Tracks
Prevention is a cornerstone of CAN’s mission to end the epidemic. The organization offers free or low-cost HIV testing, access to PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and educational initiatives that empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
By promoting awareness and providing the tools necessary for prevention, CAN is working to reduce new HIV infections nationwide.
Championing Equity and Inclusivity
CAN Community Health recognizes that the HIV epidemic disproportionately affects certain communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those facing economic hardships. The organization is deeply committed to addressing these inequities through culturally competent care, advocacy, and partnerships with local organizations.
“Our work is rooted in equity,” says Marlon Pittman, Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CAN Community Health. “We believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances.”
A Vision for the Future
CAN Community Health is a proud partner of the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative, which aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. Through collaboration with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, CAN is at the forefront of this national effort.
“Ending the HIV epidemic is not just a dream — it’s a goal within our reach,” says Rishi Patel, PharmD, MBA, AAHIVP, President & Chief Executive Officer at CAN Community Health. “With advancements in treatment, prevention, and education, we have the tools to make it happen. Now, it’s about ensuring everyone has access to these resources.”
Join the Movement
As a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, CAN Community Health invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to join its mission. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, every effort helps bring us closer to a world free from HIV.
For more information about CAN Community Health and its programs, call (844) 922-2777 or visit www.cancommunityhealth.org. Together, we CAN end the epidemic.
SOURCE: OutSFL [Link]
Imagine a world without HIV, Hepatitis C, sexually transmitted diseases and sexually transmitted infections. These health challenges can be difficult to speak about. However, this does not lessen their significance in the community.
For many years, numerous transmitted diseases were an automatic death sentence. Fortunately, with breakthrough medical advancements, people who have been diagnosed with HIV or other STDs can thrive. Individuals can take a single pill every day, to combat HIV. Impressively, the pill is more than 99% effective if taken as prescribed.
Not everyone has access to such treatments, though. Some may not be able to afford it, others may not feel comfortable getting a test done. There is a stigma attached to STDs and CAN Community Health believes that these diseases must be talked about in a candid and non-judgmental way, for more progress to occur. Getting to zero, or no new diagnoses or deaths, is its long-term goal.
At the heart of CAN’s mission is advocacy, clinical practice, research and innovation, education and outreach. Not only does the Tampa-based organization advocate for those affected by HIV and STDs, and educate them on treatment options, but it also provides comprehensive medical care. Patients can get a test kit, receive a diagnosis and start medication all in one central location. CAN Community Health, which has multiple locations around the country, also has built in-house pharmacies for convenience.
CAN has designed its services to be accessible. Rapid HIV and HEP C tests are free of charge. Most importantly, CAN does not “turn anybody down on the inability to pay,” according to Justice Gennari, national director of marketing and communications at CAN Community Health. Financial assistance is available to individuals to help pay for medical care and treatment.
Treating HIV and transmitted diseases is just a part of what CAN Community Health does. Education is equally important. When individuals are educated about HIV and other diseases in a thoughtful and compassionate way, they can be better equipped to fight these health challenges head-on. Perhaps, even more importantly, educated individuals can be more proactive in preventative care. Open conversation is emphasized in CAN’s educational programs. Patients are encouraged to ask questions without the fear of being judged.
CAN Community Health not only offers meaningful education, but also believes in the power of telling real-life stories. Through its speaker program, CAN invites individuals who have HIV, Hepatitis C, or STI or STD to talk about their experiences and how treatment has allowed them to live happy and healthy lives despite their diagnoses. These stories are meant to inspire and show that life can be prosperous even while living with a transmitted disease.
Additional services CAN offers include counseling, therapy and case management. The organization even helps individuals with housing and transportation, among other daily needs.
CAN is a nationally recognized organization, which means it has access to different grants and opportunities to serve its patients. However, it remains a local organization that focuses on providing care to the underserved and anyone who seeks help, in each community in which it has a location in. Due to the generosity of donors and grant programs, CAN Community Health can serve every individual who requests its services. CAN’s national influence has also allowed it to advocate for policies that support those living with HIV and other STDs.
CAN, which recently moved its headquarters from Sarasota to Tampa, is invested in the Tampa community. “We want the community to know that our services are here for everyone,” Gennari says.
Breaking down barriers, eliminating stigma and serving individuals are what inspire every team member at CAN Community Health to do the work they do every day. Fortunately, through their efforts, more people are getting tested and treated. While getting to zero will not happen overnight, every life that CAN helps is one step closer to a world without transmitted diseases.
SOURCE: Tampa Bay Business & Wealth, [link]