Progress and Transformation Highlight “HIV in 2017: A Year-End Summary and Discussion of Critical Developments”

While there was much transformation and progress in the diagnosis, treatment and management of HIV over the past year, there remains much to be done, according to presenters at “HIV in 2017: A Year-End Summary and Discussion of Critical Developments.”

The Friday, January 19, 2018 program was hosted by Meharry Medical College’s Department of Family and Community Medicine, National Center for Medical Education, Development and Research (NCMEDR), along with the Health Disparities Center on Research, Center of Excellence. Wilbert C. Jordan, M.D., MPH, of the Oasis Clinic in Los Angeles, California, served as keynote speaker. Dr. Jordan was one of the first physician trailblazers leading national efforts to end the AIDS epidemic in the United States and worldwide.

Dr. Jordan presented evolution and developments in HIV treatment over the years, as well as the importance of moving beyond simply treating patients. While HIV treatment has experienced progress, he said, there is still work to be done. “We have to be the ones to impact our community,” Dr. Jordan said. “We need to do more than just treat patients.” He concluded his presentation by discussing the importance of reaching youth who have been impacted by HIV and creating a community of support around them.

Renowned HIV/AIDS researcher and Meharry President James E.K. Hildreth, M.D., Ph.D., greeted attendees at The Cal Turner Family Center for Student Education and highlighted the program’s significance. “There are still complications to treatment that we need to become aware of,” he said.

Dr. Patricia Matthews-Juarez, project director of the NCMEDR, said that with partnerships and collaborations, advancements are possible. “When we work together, we can do some great work,” she said.

The audience, which included students, faculty and physicians, was welcomed by Dr. Katherine Brown, Director of Communities of Practice for NCMEDR. Dr. Paul Juarez, Director of the Health Disparities Research Center of Excellence at Meharry Medical College, concluded the program.

The National Center for Medical Education, Development and Research will also host a second year-end summary discussion on Friday, February 23, 2018, on the Meharry campus.