Home Divisions & Offices Divisions Community Health & Wellness Division HIV/STI Prevention HIV Rapid Start

What is Rapid Start?

A strategy to provide HIV medical care and support services to people within 72 hours of diagnosis or when individuals not in care decide to re-engage back into care. 

Am I a Candidate for Rapid Start?

You may be a candidate for Rapid Start if: 

  • You have been diagnosed with HIV in the past 12 months.
  • You have not received HIV care for the past 12 months or more.
  • You are not currently on ART. 
    • You are medically cleared to begin treatment quickly (your healthcare provider will conduct an assessment). 
  • Even if you’ve had HIV for a while but haven't started treatment, you may still qualify for Rapid Start. The key is to begin therapy as soon as possible to manage the virus effectively. 

 

5815 Antoine Dr, Houston, TX 77091. Phone: 832-927-7350. Email: [email protected] 

Monday - Thurs: 8 am – 7 pm 

Bi-Weekly Sat: 8 am - 2 pm

Eligibility Requirements

Proof of HIV diagnosis

Undetectable=Untransmittable(U=U)

Once a person living with HIV is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot transmit HIV to others through sexual contact.

Living with HIV is just one aspect of a person's life, not their identity. People living with HIV can lead full, healthy lives thanks to effective treatments, such as Rapid Start. Living with HIV today is different than it was decades ago—treatment can lead to long, healthy lives, and with undetectable viral loads, transmission isn’t possible. 

Common Questions About Rapid Start

Is there a cost to receive Rapid Start services?

No. All Rapid Start services are provided at no cost to the individual.

What is included in the Rapid Start services?
  • Primary Care visit provided by a Medical Doctor, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Up to a 30-day supply of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) medication(s)
  • Non-medical case management services designed to access an individual’s unmet needs and link them to services
  • Rideshare transportation services