Mobilizing partners to improve HIV/AIDS services for Latino populations in the Deep South

Issues: Many new immigrants from Latin America have settled in the southern U.S., often in communities where Latinos were rare a decade ago. Immigration status, language barriers, hostile environments, poor working conditions and lack of access to health care make them particularly vulnerable to disease. Knowledge of HIV status and testing options as well as prevention education are uncommon. Some, but not all, AIDS organizations are attempting to respond to the newcomers' needs. Description: The Latino Commission on AIDS embarked in 2006 on a regional needs assessment on AIDS prevention and care services for Latinos in seven southern states. The project will gather information for a community mapping, assess the HIV needs of the Latino community and provide technical assistance to local groups or government institutions as requested. Lessons Learned: Because most recent immigrants have limited access to health care, HIV diagnoses often occur late. Most states provide clinical services for Latinos with HIV although language barriers and residency requirements create obstacles. Due to the undercurrent of community reluctance to serve immigrants, AIDS agencies sometimes avoid publicity on what they do in this area. Latino community organizations are either non-existent or overwhelmed by multiple demands. Three response models were observed: use of health promoters or peer educators; reliance on an outreach worker connected to a local ASO; and, less frequently, quasi-experimental interventions. Health authorities often emphasize HIV testing. Recommendations: Planning, networking, advocacy and technical assistance are needed to improve HIV/AIDS services and prevention initiatives among these communities.