CAN Community Health: Leading the Charge to End the HIV Epidemic | Opinion

  • Have you seen our newsletters? Sign up HERE

Kal Gajraj. Photo by Basil Lewis.

For over three decades, CAN Community Health has been a cornerstone in the fight against HIV/AIDS, empowering individuals and transforming communities. With an unwavering commitment to compassionate care, equitable access, and innovative solutions, CAN is not just participating in the effort to end the HIV epidemic — it is leading it.

Breaking Barriers with Comprehensive Care 

CAN Community Health provides holistic, patient-centered services that address the diverse needs of individuals living with or affected by HIV. By combining cutting-edge medical treatments with supportive services such as mental health counseling, housing assistance, and nutritional guidance, CAN ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique circumstances.

“Our goal is to treat the whole person, not just the diagnosis,” says Steven K. Barnett, MD, AAHIVS, Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at CAN Community Health. “We strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and supported.”

Expanding Access Through Innovation

One of CAN’s standout achievements is its ability to meet people where they are, both figuratively and literally. Through mobile clinics, telehealth services, and community-based outreach programs, CAN is bridging gaps in care, particularly for underserved populations.  

CAN’s mobile health units bring testing, treatment, and prevention services directly to communities with limited access to healthcare. These units are instrumental in reaching at-risk populations, breaking down barriers such as transportation challenges and stigma.  

Prioritizing Prevention to Stop HIV in Its Tracks

Prevention is a cornerstone of CAN’s mission to end the epidemic. The organization offers free or low-cost HIV testing, access to PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and educational initiatives that empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.  

By promoting awareness and providing the tools necessary for prevention, CAN is working to reduce new HIV infections nationwide.  

Championing Equity and Inclusivity

CAN Community Health recognizes that the HIV epidemic disproportionately affects certain communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those facing economic hardships. The organization is deeply committed to addressing these inequities through culturally competent care, advocacy, and partnerships with local organizations.  

“Our work is rooted in equity,” says Marlon Pittman, Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CAN Community Health. “We believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances.”  

A Vision for the Future

CAN Community Health is a proud partner of the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative, which aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. Through collaboration with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, CAN is at the forefront of this national effort.  

“Ending the HIV epidemic is not just a dream — it’s a goal within our reach,” says Rishi Patel, PharmD, MBA, AAHIVP, President & Chief Executive Officer at CAN Community Health. “With advancements in treatment, prevention, and education, we have the tools to make it happen. Now, it’s about ensuring everyone has access to these resources.”  

Join the Movement

As a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, CAN Community Health invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to join its mission. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, every effort helps bring us closer to a world free from HIV.  

For more information about CAN Community Health and its programs, call (844) 922-2777 or visit www.cancommunityhealth.org. Together, we CAN end the epidemic.

OutSFL

Phone: 954-514-7095
Hours: Monday - Friday 9AM - 2PM
Editorial@OutSFL.com
Sales@OutSFL.com

Calendar@outsfl.com

Corrections: corrections@outsfl.com

2520 N. Dixie Highway,
Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Navigate

GOT A TIP?

Got a juicy lead or story idea? Let us know! You can also submit an anonymous news tip by clicking here.

GOT A TIP

   

Out South Florida

Hello from OutSFL! We hope you'll consider donating to us. Starting a business can be a scary prospect, but with your support so far, we've had tremendous success. Thank you!

donate button