Know Your Resources

For more information on any of the below topics contact Volunteers of America and speak with a prevention staff member, or stop by our office.  

Preventing HIV

Condoms– Condoms prevent sexual transmission of HIV and other STDs.  One reason condoms are effective is because they block the exchange of sex fluids; this can prevent HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis B. Because condoms cover some skin, they also reduce the chances of getting STDs passed through sexual skin contact, such as human papilloma virus (HPV), herpes, and syphilis.

Volunteers of America provides free condoms to individuals and partner organizations upon request. We stock a variety of condom types and sizes, as well as latex-free and female condom varieties. 

Clean needle use– Sharing needles is a common way HIV and hepatitis C are passed. It is best to avoid sharing needles, rinse water, and any injection equipment that could contain the blood of other people. 

PrEP – Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill that can prevent HIV. PrEP is a good option for people who frequently share needles, have more than five sex partners a year, have anal sex with non-exclusive partners, or have an HIV positive sexual partner.

PEP – Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication that can be started up to three days after exposure to HIV, to reduce the chances that a person will become HIV positive. It is important to talk to a doctor as soon as possible after exposure, because the sooner PEP is taken, the more effective it is. PEP must be taken for four weeks. 

Treatment as prevention– HIV treatment has improved greatly since the 1980s and 1990s. HIV positive people live long, healthy lives when they take their medication as prescribed. HIV treatment consists of daily medications which block HIV from multiplying and damaging the immune system.  

When the HIV virus can’t multiply, it stops being present in the body fluids that can pass HIV. This is called being undetectable. HIV positive people who take their medications reliably and stay undetectable long-term do not pass HIV to others, according to the National Institutes of Health research study HPTN 052.

HIV and pregnancy– HIV positive mothers can pass HIV to their babies if they do not take their medication as prescribed. To protect the health of both mom and baby, pregnant women should be routinely screened for HIV, and if HIV positive, should consult with their healthcare provider regularly.

Other STD testing– Staying clear of other STDs also lowers your HIV risk. If you are under 25 or have recent non-exclusive sex partners, the CDC recommends getting tested for STDs every year. 

Incentives to reduce risk- If you’re currently worried about HIV due to needle use, unprotected anal sex with non-exclusive partners, or a high number of recent sex partners, you may be eligible for gift card incentives for participating in a risk reduction program. 

Living with HIV

Volunteers of America HIV Health Services administers the Ryan White Part B program in western South Dakota, supporting those diagnosed with HIV.  A multidisciplinary healthcare team is established and surrounds a person with needed resources to navigate the healthcare system and promote a healthy lifestyle.  After building the healthcare team, VOA assists HIV positive persons to address barriers to care.

VOA HIV Health Services helps the newly diagnosed and persons moving to South Dakota understand their health care options. We provide referrals and consultation on services to best fit each person’s needs.  VOA provides assistance addressing core HIV medical services as well as support services related to physical health.  

• Core HIV medical services

  • Medical, dental, and vision assistance

  • Medication assistance

  • Insurance premium assistance

• Support services

  • Medical transportation assistance

  • Basic needs assistance

  • Mental health referrals

VOA HIV Health Services also assists with mental, social, and community health needs of HIV positive persons.  Our clients are connected with individual and community supports to help cope with living with HIV.  VOA believes the best way to ensure a person’s needs are met is to engage them in a supportive community.

FAQ’s: 

Who qualifies for Ryan White Part B services? 

You must have a diagnosis of HIV, live in the state of South Dakota, and be below 300% of the federal poverty guideline. 

How do I enroll in Ryan White services? 

Enrolling in Ryan White is simple.  First you must call VOA and speak with the Ryan White case manager to set-up an appointment.  When coming to your enrollment appointment you must bring proof of HIV status, proof of South Dakota residency, proof of income, and proof of insurance (if available).  If you are unable to provide these documents you can speak with the Ryan White case manager to make alternative arrangements.  

How is medical case management beneficial for me? 

Navigating the health care system can be a challenge for many individuals.  Engaging in medical case management provides an ally who will advise you on the best decisions for your health while connecting you to needed resources.  

Do I have to change medical providers after enrolling in Ryan White?

Ryan White supports your right to choose your own medical providers.  You can choose which medical providers you prefer to work with to address your diagnosis of HIV.  Ryan White works with all infectious disease specialists in South Dakota and will ensure you have the information to make an informed decision when choosing your healthcare provider.

What areas does VOA serve?

VOA provides Ryan White and HIV Prevention services to all counties/cities west of the Missouri River, also known as “West River” South Dakota.  Our office is located in Rapid City, SD but we are able to make travel arrangements to meet your needs.