June 27 is National HIV and AIDS Testing Day (photo courtesy of aids.gov website)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 be tested for HIV at least once as part of their routine health care. Tomorrow is national HIV and AIDS Testing Day to build awareness about the importance of being assessed.

At Colorado Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), our vision statement reflects our commitment to excelling as a valued leader, trusted partner and provider-of-choice recognized for quality health care delivery and optimal outcomes achieved in collaboration with patients and their families, our dedicated, caring staff and our established network of health care agencies.  This is why we encourage everyone to make one of the most adult decisions of their lives and get tested for HIV and AIDS this month.  A very positive story about the importance of testing is told by Patrick, Blogger, New Media Expert and Athlete. Click here to hear his powerful story.

The population of the State of Colorado is 5,355,866, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.  Here below are some Colorado Data Highlights related to HIV and AIDS diagnoses (source: http://aidsvu.org/state/colorado/).

• People living with an HIV or AIDS diagnosis in 2012: 11,558
• New HIV diagnoses in 2013: 329
• Deaths in 2012 due to HIV/AIDS: 106
• 89% of people living with an HIV diagnosis in 2012 were men, 11% were women.
• 14% of people living with an HIV diagnosis in 2012 were black, 20% Hispanic/Latino, and 64% white.
• In 2012, 78% of HIV cases in men were from male-to-male sexual contact, 6% were from injection drug use, and 12% were from injection drug use and male to male sexual contact.
• In 2012, 72% of HIV cases in women were from heterosexual contact, and 26% were from injection drug use.

Did you know that the Colorado VNA, as part of its Workplace Wellness Program, offers TB tests and Hep A & B (3-part series) vaccinations at schools, dentist offices, businesses, property management offices and community organizations?  Colorado Visiting Nurse Association’s compassionate, dedicated, and experienced healthcare professionals are recognized for their expert, personal medical attention and for their strong tradition of ensuring continuity of care while creating warm relationships with patients.

A portion of the proceeds from our Workplace Wellness clinics support our home nurse visits to ill, disabled and elderly adults. By selecting the Colorado VNA as your Workplace Wellness immunizations provider, you are protecting your health and supporting the community. Colorado VNA proudly celebrated 125 years of service in our state in 2014.  To learn more about our year-round Workplace Wellness services, call 303-698-6517.