Atlanta-Metro Area HIV Epidemic Topic of Upcoming Educational Event at Morehouse School of Medicine
One of the most highly publicized local health concerns will be discussed in an upcoming symposium at Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM).
"An Evening Educational Event to Address the HIV Epidemic in the Atlanta-Metro Area" is scheduled for 5-9 p.m. June 16 at MSM's National Center for Primary Care. It is open to all members of the medical community with a particular focus on primary doctor physicians and care and treatment teams.
Presented by the AIDS Education and Training Center (AETC) program, the Continuing Medical Education event will address topics such as local HIV epidemiology, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and treatment as prevention, and how best to talk about sex and HIV risks with patients.
MSM designates this educational activity for a maximum of 3.0 AMA PRA Category 3 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
"This event will provide attendees with up-to-date information on trends to raise health care community interest in taking immediate action to help thwart the drastic rise of new HIV infections," said Georgia AETC Program Manager Sean J. McIntosh.
Early diagnosis of HIV and linkage to care are key components of the HIV care continuum and contribute to curbing the HIV epidemic. This event will enhance participants’ understandings of the important role they need to play in implementing routine HIV testing in their own practice.
Atlanta’s struggle with HIV is well-documented. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health's latest findings:
- Georgia is fifth highest in the nation for total number of new diagnoses of HIV infection.
- Two-thirds of Georgia residents living with HIV infection reside in the Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area.
"Hosting this event sounds out the message that Morehouse School of Medicine cares about the community in which it lives and breathes," McIntosh said.
Dr. Mesfin G. Fransua, associate professor of clinical medicine (infectious diseases) at Morehouse School of Medicine and co-principal investigator at the Georgia AETC, will be the symposium chair and facilitator. Also scheduled are guest speakers from the Georgia Department of Health, Fulton County Department of Health, the Fulton County AIDS Task Force and MSM.
Registration is required. Participants are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy a light dinner and networking session from 5-6 p.m. Register for the symposium at http://www.seaetc.com/georgia.