In the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection shifts from a fatal to a chronic disease. Life expectancy and quality of life is nearly normal for HIV-infected persons who are diagnosed early, receive regular treatment and follow up. The HIV/AIDS combat team at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital embarked on a mission to achieve the visionary goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030, which was proposed by the United Nations (UNAIDS). We provide comprehensive HIV care, from the largest scale of HIV voluntary counseling and testing nationwide, to education and outreach programs, focusing on providing accessible HIV services to populations at higher risk in their own community environment, innovative HIV case management programs and continuing research; engaging in partnership with either government or private organizations. Over the past 20 years, we have provided 27,604 anonymous HIV tests, diagnosed 892 new HIV infections, while maintaining service satisfaction rates of above 95%. We organized 327 outreach activities, 20 HIV patient support group meetings, and 15 medical symposiums to advocate for destigmatization and to strive for an HIV friendly environment. Our team and program received the top award from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control for 5 consecutive years.
2016 Symbol of National Quality