A groundbreaking step forward in public health has arrived with the grand opening of Matthew 25’s newest clinic in Bowling Green, Ky. The facility aims to provide comprehensive care and support for individuals affected by HIV while promoting prevention and education to reduce transmission rates in the community.
Matthew 25 brings a state-of-the-art clinic addressing a longstanding need for accessible HIV services in South Central Kentucky. With rising concerns about health disparities and limited healthcare access in rural areas, the new clinic is poised to become a lifeline for many residents. With the inclusion of a new mobile clinic, healthcare can meet clients all across the state regardless of location or transportation needs.
Courtney Woolfork, the non-profit’s CEO, emphasized the importance of the facility: “We are thrilled to offer a safe, welcoming space where people can receive the care they need without stigma. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are crucial in managing HIV effectively, and Matthew 25 is dedicated to ensuring everyone in our community has access to these resources.”
The clinic will provide a range of services, including:
- Free and Confidential Testing: Rapid HIV tests with same-day results.
- Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Access to HIV treatment.
- Hep C Testing and Treatment: Rapid test and treatment assistance.
- Prevention Programs: Distribution of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) medications.
- Education and Counseling: Counseling and resources to promote safer practices and reduce stigma.
- Community Outreach: Mobile testing unit to reach underserved populations in surrounding rural areas.
- Food Pantry: Nutrition support
- Medical Transport: Reliable transport for medical appointments.
One of the clinic’s key missions is to combat the stigma often associated with HIV. The clinic hopes to encourage more individuals to seek testing and treatment by fostering a comprehensive and judgment-free environment.
“HIV does not define a person,” said River Carter, the Prevention and Prep Navigator at the clinic. “Our goal is to empower our clients at any stage in their healthcare journey.”
The new Bowling Green clinic location will serve our 10 counties in the south-central region including Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, and Warren. The opening of the clinic is expected to have a far-reaching impact, from improving individual health outcomes to reducing the overall transmission rate of HIV in the region and keeping the lives of everyone safer and healthier.
The clinic is at 944 Fields Drive, Suite 102, Bowling Green, Ky. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling. Walk-ins are also welcome during operating hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to Noon, and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm