Continuum of Care (COC Program)

For Individuals and Families with HIV/AIDS

General Information:

The Continuum of Care Program is a community based program that offers a broad spectrum of case management and outpatient services to HIV infected individuals throughout the Upper Peninsula.  The goals of the program include financial assistance for early medical intervention, maintenance of optimal health, and access to support services.  Clients are active members in the team approach to care.

The Continuum of Care is administered by the Marquette County Health Department.  Services are based out of the Marquette County Health Department.  Funding is provided through the Michigan Department of Community Health by the Michigan Health Initiative, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act, and the Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS.

Eligibility:

Residents of the U.P. who are infected with the HIV virus or their families are eligible for this program.  Referrals can be self-directed or made by other health care providers with the written consent of the client.

Services Available:

• Medical evaluation
• Diagnostic tests approved within the scope of the program
• Follow-up outpatient visits
• Nurse/Social Work case managers
• Referrals to other supportive services as needed
• Mileage reimbursement
• Home visits
• Emergency assistance
• Education and support

Confidential or anonymous testing is available.  This is provided by certified HIV test counselors.  The cost is $35.

COC resources are used as payer of last resort.
A multi-disciplinary team approach is used for client care.

For more information, visit the following web sites: 

Michigan Department of Community Health: http://www.michigan.gov/mdch

Centers for Disease Control:  http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/default.html

MDCH - "I Will Survive"  http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,4612,7-132-2940_2955_2982_46000_61638---,00.html

Who to Contact:

For more information, contact Laura Fredrickson at 906-475-7651.

Marquette County Health Department
184 US 41 East
Negaunee, MI 49866
(906) 475-7651 (phone)
(906) 475-4435 (fax)