As described in the below HRSA infographic, people with HIV are at a much higher risk of being unstably housed or homeless than the general population. In turn, less stable housing hinders HIV viral suppression.
However, RWHAP client viral suppression have improved significantly from 2010-2018, including those with temporary or unstable housing, as depicted in the below chart from Overview of clients served by RWHAP, 2018 (PPTX).
Viral Suppression, Clients Served by RWHAP, by Housing Status, 2010–2018—U.S. and 3 Territories
How Can RWHAP Support and Leverage Housing
Parts A-D can providing housing support services (see PCN 16-02). Examples of coordination and support may include: inclusion of housing services in planning processes and procurement; focus on housing for needs assessment studies; co-located housing and care services; targeted adherence programs for PWH experiencing unstable housing; inclusion of a housing indicator as a risk for non-adherence and/or medical retention; assessment of housing status as part of a care plan; resource commitment as appropriate; and enhanced strategic relationships with housing providers/experts.
HRSA and HUD Coordinate
HRSA's RWHAP has coordinated with federal housing programs for decades, particularly with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS) program.
- HOPWA and HOPWA Technical Assistance is designed to help grant recipients improve their operations to better deliver housing services to people with HIV.
HRSA TA Resources on HIV, Homelessness and Housing
- Sharing and Integrating HIV Client Data Across Provider Organizations to Improve Service Coordination is a toolkit for agencies seeking to integrate their data systems across housing and HIV care systems in order to improve service delivery.
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The HIV, Housing & Employment Project is examining interventions that coordinate HIV care and treatment, housing, and employment services.
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Building Medical Homes for Multiply Diagnosed HIV-Positive Homeless Populations features care coordinator/patient navigation interventions for vulnerable populations.