Ryan White Basics
Who was Ryan White?
He was diagnosed with AIDS from a blood transfusion
What’s the first step after someone tests positive for HIV?
Link them to care as soon as possible
A patient arrives confused about the check in process. Who should assist them to get started?
The front desk/receptionist guides the patient through check in and assist with navigating to appropiate staff
What does “U=U” stand for?
Undetectable = Untransmittable
True or False? You can get HIV from hugging or sharing utensils (plates, cups) someone who has it
False HIV is not spread through casual contact like hugging and sharing utensils (plates, cups)
What year did the Ryan White Program begin?
1990
Who ensures and verifies patients documentation are up to date?
The Eligibility Specialist
A patient asks about options for transportation assistance to get to appointments. Who provides this information?
Anyone in the clinic :) However, the CM connects directly with transportation resources and programs.
What is ART?
Antiretroviral Therapy (medication used to treat HIV)
Myth or Fact? HIV can be cured with antibiotics
Myth there is no cure for HIV but it can be managed with medication
What is the main goal of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program?
To provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with HIV so they can achieve viral suppression
Which staff members work together to help clients stay in care and on treatment?
CMs, MAs, Eligibility,Providers *whole team! :)
A patient calls saying they missed an appointment and wants to know how to reschedule. Who handles this request?
The front desk or MAs schedule/reschedule appointments
What’s the main goal of HIV treatment?
To achieve viral suppression and improve overall health
True or False? You can tell if someone has HIV just by looking at them
False you cannot tell by appearance
Which federal agency runs the program?
HRSA (Health Resources and Services Administration)
After starting treatment, how often should a client get their labs checked?
Every 3–6 months (depends on provider)
A patient wants to know how to apply for RW services for the first time. Who guides them through the process?
The Eligibility Specialist helps new clients complete applications and understand requirements
Why is it important for patients to take their medication every day?
Missing doses can cause the virus to multiply, increase viral load, or lead to drug resistance
True or False? Having multiple sexual partners automatically means you will acquire HIV
False having multiple partners increases risk but using protection and regular testing helps prevent HIV
What does “payer of last resort” mean?
Ryan White funds are used only when no other funding source covers the service
What’s the ultimate goal for every client in the care journey?
Achieving and maintaining viral suppression
A patient calls frustrated because their HIV medication refill was not processed on time. Who takes the lead to fix this?
The MAs contact the provider to approve refills and f/u with the patient
How can the clinic team support clients with medication adherence?
By providing education, reminders, follow-ups, and addressing barriers
True or False? People living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to others
True “Undetectable = Untransmittable” (U=U)