HIV care and LGBTQ+ health

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York (Highmark BCBSWNY) has adopted the New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Clinical Guidelines for medical care of persons with HIV infection and those at risk.

Our goal is early identification and treatment of HIV and health education and prevention for all members to reduce the risk of developing AIDS. Through member engagement, we aim to increase rates of retention in care and adherence to treatment in an effort to improve overall viral load suppression rates.

Highmark BCBSWNY is also committed to the LGBTQ+ community. In this section, you will also find resources on LGBTQ+ health.

HIV prevention — PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a cornerstone of HIV prevention and is strongly endorsed by New York state (NYS). However, it is underutilized, particularly by communities disproportionately affected by HIV. This guideline provides NYS clinicians with recommendations on promoting sexual health and the use of PrEP.

Primary HIV care

The purpose of this guideline is to provide NYS clinicians with evidence-based clinical recommendations for comprehensive primary care to patients with HIV, whether care is provided in an HIV specialty or primary care setting.

Perinatal HIV care

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide recommendations for perinatal and postpartum treatment for women with HIV.