Brownsville's Brookdale Hospital Medical Center celebrated the ceremonial ribbon cutting for a new primary care clinic for people living with HIV and AIDS.
The STAR Health Center (SHC)-Brookdale, previously known as the Treatment for Life Center, will serve as a primary care clinic run by SUNY Downstate and Brookdale Hospital to expand on existing services such as care coordination, home visits, mental health and substance use counseling.
"Our role of caring for our neighbors is one that we take seriously-we are committed to keeping our community healthy," said SUNY Downstate President Wayne J. Riley, M.D. "With the extended grant, we are afforded greater opportunities to expand our services and help more people live longer and healthier lives."
Established in 1992, the STAR Program is a multidisciplinary approach to integrate clinical education and research with medical care in response to HIV, HCV and substance use in Central Brooklyn. STAR also focuses on raising community awareness about HIV through outreach and education initiatives at schools, churches, shelters and other venues throughout the borough.
The newly announced expansion is made possible with $7.7 million in grants and will also support the clinical training for healthcare professionals.
"By combining the work and expertise of two medical institutions, the STAR Health Center will be able to bring patient-centered, comprehensive care to a population that we know benefits when their providers work together," said Jack DeHovitz, M.D., who will lead the STAR Health Center - Brookdale. "I am proud to spearhead this new initiative and look forward to improving the health of those living with HIV."
The STAR Health Center is expected to open next year.
