Columbia University Health Services

A group of concerned students and medical staff at Columbia University organized the Gay Health Advocacy Project (GHAP) in 1985 to address the health-related needs of gay men affected by the emerging HIV epidemic. Through the efforts of those original GHAP Advocates, Columbia became the first institution of higher education in the world to offer HIV antibody testing to its students, faculty, staff, and community. Over 1200 people–male, female, straight, and gay–were tested at GHAP in 2004.

From its inception, GHAP has recognized the connections between physical health and social and psychological well-being. In addition to developing an intensive training program for the volunteer Advocates who carry out pre- and post- HIV antibody test counseling, GHAP has sponsored support groups , conferences, a mentoring program, educational talks, and workshops for the Columbia community.

HIV Antibody Testing
The HIV antibody test provided through GHAP is confidential, open to the entire Columbia community (including partners), and provided at no charge. GHAP is pleased to be able to offer Rapid HIV Antibody Testing to the Columbia community. Recent studies show that rapid tests are sensitive, effective, and accurate.

GHAP offers walk-in appointments during the Fall, Spring, and Summer. Go to Walk-In Hours for HIV Testing for more information or schedule an appointment. Test results are given in person and take 24 hours to process.

Even if you are not sure that you want a test, you can come in and talk with a Peer Advocate. Trained GHAP Advocates will work with you to understand confusing and sometimes anxiety-provoking information about HIV and its transmission. We can help you assess and reduce your risk of HIV infection.

GHAP Advocates are trained to address a broad range of issues pertaining to sexual and emotional health. In addition to information about HIV, we can provide you with information about the transmission, prevention and treatment of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as the psychological factors connected to these issues. Even if you do not want an HIV test, Advocates are available during Walk-in Hours for HIV Testing to answer your questions and provide support.

Services for HIV-positive students
GHAP works with other Health Services at Columbia (HSC) staff to offer the clinical care, support, and information that HIV-positive students need to manage HIV infection effectively. Individualized care from an HIV specialist, regular monitoring of CD4 and viral load, medications, preventive treatments, and psychological support (both individual and group), are all provided through HSC and covered under the Columbia Student Medical Insurance Plan . For more information, contact us .

Workshops
GHAP offers workshops on a variety of topics, and are facilitated in dormitories, academic classes, orientation programs, student organizations, and employee groups. Topics can also be tailored to specific interests.

• HIV transmission and risk reduction
• Other STIs
• Physical and emotional health of the LGBT population
• Sexuality

LGBTQ Support
Although GHAP serves the entire Columbia community regardless of gender or orientation, we continue to develop our commitment to advocating for the sexual and emotional health of the LGBTQ population. LGBTQ students may have particular psychological, health-related, and social needs–related to coming out and homophobia, among other factors–that deserve special attention. Either during Walk-in Hours for HIV Testing , or by appointment with a GHAP Coordinator, students can talk with someone in a confidential, non-judgmental environment. GHAP also makes referrals to other LGBTQ-sensitive organizations, counselors, and support groups, either on- or off-campus.

Why do I have to meet with a counselor?
New York State law requires that you meet with a counselor before being tested. GHAP Advocates recognize that clients have a wide array of knowledge and experience and will tailor the session to your needs.

What if I test positive?
Currently, there is effective treatment for people living with HIV infection. A combination of antiviral drugs dramatically reduces the risk of serious illness for infected people. As treatment continues to improve, keeping up to date with the latest scientific developments becomes increasingly important.

If your test turns out positive, Health Services at Columbia is available to provide comprehensive care and support. If you are already HIV infected, contact us for treatment options.

If you have any questions about the testing procedure, HIV, or other related issues, contact us .

If there is an HIV-related emergency (if you strongly believe you have been exposed to HIV), please contact Primary Care Medical Services . If there is an urgent health concern after hours, please contact the clinician-on-call .

For more information about HIV/AIDS, please view the Columbia University Handbook on HIV and AIDS, by Laura Pinsky and Paul Harding Douglas.

Fall 2008 Walk-In Hours

Monday, 3:00pm-7:00pm
Tuesday, 3:00pm-7:00pm
Wednesday, 12:00pm-4:00pm
Thursday, 12:00pm-4:00pm

(or by appointment 212 854 6655)

Location

Amsterdam Practice Group
4th Floor, John Jay Hall

Office 212 854 6655
Automated Info Line 212 854 7970