Aging Adolescents and Young Adults with HIV: Navigating the Second Transition in HIV Care

HIV Treatment Track

Having previously reported on clinical outcomes of Adolescents and Young Adults with HIV (AYAHIV) in the Accessing Care Early (ACE) young adult transition program, we present an update, detailing the design and implementation of this multi-dimensional program, the innovations in biomedical and care delivery interventions, as well as programmatic challenges and opportunities as we evolve into a mature transition program. This workshop will use didactics and interactive presentation, case-study, transparent panel discussion and Q&A as participants engage with the ACE program’s multidisciplinary team, including an YAHIV who “came of age” in the program.

HIV and Cognitive Decline: The Power of Partnership

HIV Treatment Track

As people living with HIV (PLWH) age, cognitive decline presents a growing yet underaddressed challenge. This presentation highlights an innovative collaboration between The Grand Rapids Red Project (TGRRP) and the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter (AAMC) to implement routine cognitive screenings within TGRRP’s HIV care programs. The initiative targets PLWH aged 44+ and those exhibiting overt cognitive impairment, aiming to bridge gaps in care complexity for aging populations.

In this presentation, AAMC will review national trends in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) and statewide efforts to develop programming for aging PLWH through partnerships with community-based organizations (CBOs). With AAMC’s support, TGRRP designed an HIV and aging pilot program featuring tailored screening tools, staff training, and referral pathways—offering replicable strategies for similar programs.

HIV and Cognitive Decline: Understanding HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder

HIV Treatment Track

With advancements in HIV treatment, individuals living with HIV are now living longer, By 2030, 70% of people living with HIV (PLWH) will be ages 50 and older. But, as PLWH age they face unique challenges, particularly with cognitive health. One major concern is HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder (HAND), a form of cognitive decline more common among PLWH. This presentation will provide a brief overview of HIV care; the signs and risk factors for HAND; similarities and differences between HAND and Alzheimer's disease; and why accurately diagnosing cognitive change in PLWH is so important.

Navigating HIV in Pregnancy: Clinical Scenarios and Guideline-Based Management for Infants and Pregnant People

HIV Treatment Track

This presentation will explore critical considerations in the management of HIV in the context of pregnancy, focusing on evidence-based practices and clinical guidelines. Divided into three clinically relevant scenarios, the session will address: (1) treatment and monitoring of HIV in pregnant individuals, (2) postnatal management of infants with in utero exposure to HIV, and (3) considerations for HIV-positive parents who plan to breastfeed. Each topic will be anchored by a clinical case, offering participants an opportunity to apply current guidelines. Emphasis will be placed on reducing risk of perinatal HIV transmission, optimizing maternal and infant outcomes, and navigating ethical and cultural factors in decision making. Attendees will leave with practical clinical pearls and an updated understanding of best practices in HIV care during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Leveraging Quality Improvement to Improve STI Outcomes

STIs Track

In recent years, sexually transmitted infections (STI) rates in the United States have risen dramatically, with more than 2.4 million STIs reported in the United States alone (CDC, 2024). STIs can have a profound impact on health, including infertility, neurological and cardiovascular disease, stillbirths, and increased risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This growing epidemic demands urgent action to enhance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of STIs.

Maximizing STI Prevention: Addressing Missed Opportunities for Testing in Contraceptive Care

STIs Track

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a growing public health concern, particularly for women and girls, who experience disproportionately high rates and rising incidence. Barriers such as cost, transportation and geographic access, and appointment availability limit access to timely STI care. For those who do access family planning care, integrating STI testing into comprehensive visits can reduce the need for repeat appointments and improve health and wellbeing.

No-Cost, High Impact: The Power of Free STI Clinics in Driving PrEP Usage

STIs Track

In 2023, in response to rising syphilis rates and persistent disparities in STI outcomes, we launched a free, community-based STI clinic to expand access to testing and treatment. Prior to this, our services were primarily focused on providing PrEP and HIV care to the LGBT population. In 2024 alone, the clinic served 871 patients—69% of whom identified as ethnic minorities, a population disproportionately impacted by barriers to healthcare access, including PrEP.

Stigma-Free History Taking: A Herpes-Informed Model for Sexual Health Providers

STIs Track

Attendees will receive practical language tools and strategies for creating safer environments that promote disclosure and engagement, with a focus on empathy, choice, and validation. The session includes a live, interactive demonstration where providers will practice history-taking scenarios and receive real-time audience feedback on tone, language, and emotional safety.

Commercial Support Acknowledgement

This conference is supported, in part, by independent educational grants from ineligible companies. A full list of supporters is available here. All accredited content has been developed and delivered in accordance with the ACCME Standards for Integrity and Independence and the criteria of Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education™, and is free of commercial bias.