Penobscot County HIV Outbreak
We currently have an HIV outbreak in Penobscot County, ME. Most of the cases are in people who inject drugs(PWID). Bangor Public Health and Community Services has expanded its capacity and services to help manage the outbreak. We are pleased to offer the following services:
HIV Case Management Services
We have launched a new intensive case management program with two case managers working directly with people with HIV. Our case managers assist clients with housing and health insurance applications and provide transportation to help clients attend their medical appointments. They also advocate, educate, and provide support to clients to improve their quality of life. If you would like to connect with case management services, please call (207)-992-4561 or email case.management@bangormaine.gov
HIV/HEP C Testing
We provide HIV/HEP C testing at our Bangor Public Health Clinic located on 103 Texas Ave, Bangor, ME 04401. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. If you have any questions about HIV/HEP C testing, please call (207)-992-4547
Self-test Kits
We distribute oral self-test kits to various community partners and individuals in Bangor. These self-test kits are free and accessible to anyone who prefers testing at home instead of visiting a healthcare provider. To request HIV self-test kits, please call (207)-992-4553
Testing Incentive Coupons
We supply testing incentive coupons to individuals who visit the Bangor Public Health clinic, the PCHC clinic, and the Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness clinic for HIV and Hep C testing. These incentives are a motivating factor for some people to get tested.
Medication Adherence Program
We provide incentives to clients in the outbreak who have reached certain milestones during their HIV treatment. We provide incentives for blood draws, HIV injectables, and when a client reaches viral suppression. For inquiries about the Medication Adherence Program, please call (207)-992-4553
Educational Materials
We have created and developed educational materials such as flyers, brochures, and posters on HIV. Some are attached below
