Service priorities and unmet service needs among people living with HIV/AIDS: Results from a nationwide interview of HIV/AIDS housing organizations

Carter A. Lennon, University of Connecticut
Jennifer A. Pellowski, University of Connecticut
Angela C. White, University of Connecticut
Seth C. Kalichman, University of Connecticut
David J. Finitsis, University of Connecticut
Viana Turcios-Cotto, University of Connecticut
Alefiyah Pishori, University of Connecticut
Nicole M. Overstreet, University of Connecticut
Dominica Hernandez, University of Connecticut
Ann Kane, Tabor House Inc.
David M. Kelly, Tabor House Inc.
Gertrude A. Lanouette, Tabor House Inc.

Abstract

Housing for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) has been linked to a number of positive physical and mental health outcomes, in addition to decreased sexual and drug-related risk behavior. The current study identified service priorities for PLWHA, services provided by HIV/AIDS housing agencies, and unmet service needs for PLWHA through a nationwide telephone survey of HIV/AIDS housing agencies in the USA. Housing, alcohol/drug treatment, and mental health services were identified as the three highest priorities for PLWHA and assistance finding employment, dental care, vocational assistance, and mental health services were the top needs not being met. Differences by geographical region were also examined. Findings indicate that while housing affords PLWHA access to services, there are still areas (e.g., mental health services) where gaps in linkages to care exist. © 2013 Taylor & Francis.