ASN - Aids Support Network - San Luis Obispo County
Services
2009 Survey
Benefits Counseling
Insurance and benefit programs such as SSI, SSDI, Medi-Cal, Medicare, CARE/HIPP, and private insurance programs can be confusing and daunting to those trying to utilize them. ASN's Benefits Counselor, Cathy Lewis, helps our clients access the benefits that they are entitled to.
Health Counseling
For clients, family members and the public, current HIV and AIDS information is vital. Terry Comer, ASN's Health Counselor, provides current treatment information, is a link to the medical community for the agency and, for clients, is able to give referrals to physicians, discuss drug side effects and disease progression.
Housing Services
Finding suitable and stable housing for our clients is one of our highest priorities. ASN's Housing Services Coordinator, Rachel Richardson, advises clients, assists with housing searches, is the liaison with local housing programs (such as Section 8) and works with clients concerning utilities. The agency owns and operates 12 units of housing for HIV+ clients in San Luis Obispo. These rent subsidized units are specifically for low-income clients.
Financial Assistance
Assistance is available to ASN's HIV+ clients from the Ryan White CARE Act and Housing Opportunities for People With AIDS (HOPWA) funds for:
- Counseling
- Dental Care
- Nutritional Counseling
- Transportation for out of county medical appointments
- Health Insurance
- Eye Care
- Food Vouchers
- Utility Assistance
- Rental Assistance
Medi-Cal Waiver Program
With a Nurse Case Manager and Social Work Case Manager, ASN's Medi-Cal Waiver Program provides more intensive supportive services for a limited number HIV+ clients whose health status becomes more fragile. The program's strength is more in-depth nursing evaluation and psycho-social support. There are eligibility requirements for the program.
Volunteer Services
ASN provides practical assistance for clients, such as transportation to appointments, housekeeping, meal preparation or food delivery and companionship. Karla Quiroga, ASN's Volunteer Coordinator, matches client needs and volunteer availability.
Support Groups
ASN provides several support groups for clients and their families (i.e. a men's group, a women's group and a children's group as needed).
Informational Forums
Several times a year, ASN provides informational forums for clients and interested community members. Topics include treatment issues, nutrition, psycho-social issues, benefits information, personal budgeting, etc.
