AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new, all-in-one healthcare center opened Friday in central Austin, according to an announcement from the city. The center was created to bring affordable medical services for those living with HIV.
City leaders joined the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the new facility, which is located on the corner of 29th Street and Guadalupe Street.
“The new facility will provide primary medical care for individuals living with HIV as well as pharmacy services, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment, PrEP exams and services, and case management,” the city said.
The facility also includes a thrift store, which gives part of its profit toward supporting HIV prevention and treatment services.
“According to recent statistics from AIDSVu, there are close to 7,200 individuals living with HIV in Austin, TX and more than 100,000 individuals living with HIV statewide,” the city said.
Anthony Snipes, Texas regional director for AHF, spoke with KXAN about the importance of the facility to the community.
“This is a safety net for them. This is a place where they can come and not be fearful and be welcome. But more importantly, they can be served,” Snipes said.