April 10 marks National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day to celebrate progress in HIV care, empower young people with knowledge and resources, and highlight the important role communities play in prevention and support. The initiative encourages young people to access accurate information, prevention tools, and compassionate care.

Thanks to advances in HIV treatment and prevention, young people today have more opportunities than ever to take charge of their health. With access to testing, care and prevention tools, adolescents and young adults can stay healthy, achieve viral suppression, and live full, vibrant lives while also helping to reduce new HIV transmissions in their communities.

Here in Northeast Pennsylvania, The Wright Center for Community Health has been a leader in HIV testing, treatment and support for more than two decades through its Ryan White HIV and Infectious Disease Clinic. The clinic serves nearly 500 patients across seven counties, providing coordinated, whole-person care at community health centers in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.

The center offers integrated primary and preventive services for individuals living with or at risk for HIV. Today, over 95 percent of the clinic’s patients have achieved undetectable viral loads, reflecting both the effectiveness of treatment and the dedication of patients and care teams.

Beyond medical care, the clinic emphasizes emotional well-being, social connection and community support. HRSA-funded Part B case management helps patients navigate housing, transportation, insurance and behavioral health needs, empowering them to live fully and independently. The clinic also supports continuity of care for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community, ensuring access to essential HIV services.

The clinic welcomes new patients and provides care regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. 

National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a reminder that education, testing and early treatment are powerful tools. By investing in young people, providing supportive care, and promoting community engagement, we can continue to build on decades of progress and move toward a future free from HIV-related stigma and new transmissions.

Mary Louise Decker, M.D.
Infectious disease medical director, 
The Wright Center for Community Health
Scranton, PA