Cute little bird AIDS AND ADDICTION: A MODEL OF LONG TERM CARE
by Zeller, Barbara, M.D.

[We.D.3712] AIDS AND ADDICTION: A MODEL OF LONG TERM CARE

Zeller, Barbara, M.D. Medical Director H.E.L.P./Project Samaritan

Issue: The person with AIDS who is chemically dependent has special needs, requiring an integrated model of care.

Project: H.E.L.P./Project Samaritian, Inc. is a 66-bed long term care facility located in the heart of the HIV epidemic in the Bronx, New York. The program addresses the special needs of the person with AIDS who is chemically dependent, often homeless or incarcerated, and frequently co-infected with tuberculosis. H.E.L.P./P.S.I. has developed a model for Primary Care utilizing an interdisciplinary team approach. This program provides primary HIV medical care, with an alternative component of acupuncture and herbal medicine, intensive resident education, 24 hour nursing care, a graduated phase substance abuse program within an adaptive therapeutic community, therapeutic activities, and a special activities track for people with HIV-cognitive impairment.

Results: The program has filled a special need, providing a higher quality of life, medical stabilization, and, for over half of the residents, a return to independent community living.

Lessons learned: People with AIDS and chemical dependence can achieve an improved quality of life and recovery from chemical abuse through an integrated care model in a setting of a nursing home/adaptive therapeutic community.

Barbara Zeller, M.D., 1401 University Avenue, Bronx, New York, 10452
Tel: 718-681-8700


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