Medical research is one of the most important investments society makes. It’s at the forefront of all patient care. It’s the driving force behind the advancements in medical and surgical treatments that often lead to fewer illnesses and disabilities, and longer, healthier lives.

UF Health Jacksonville and the University of Florida colleges of Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy play a major role in this process. Our physicians, providers and students move medicine forward by promoting treatment and prevention. They contribute to the region by driving economic growth and productivity. And they improve patient care through the ongoing research and discoveries occurring within the health system.

This fall is no exception. Last month, the UF Health Center for HIV/AIDS Research, Education and Service and the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville’s department of community health and family medicine launched a telemedicine program to treat patients with HIV.  The three-year program is being funded by a $2.2 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and provides patients with HIV access to physicians and providers instantly through UF Health Virtual Visit.

Virtual Visit allows providers to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients remotely via computers, tablets and smartphones. This service gives patients access to UF Health physicians and providers from any location with internet connectivity. This program greatly benefits patients with HIV who may have to arrange for child care, depend on public transportation or have jobs that limit the time they have to visit a doctor — breaking down barriers to lifesaving care.

The telemedicine model proved to work in rural settings where access to specialists is limited. This project aims to achieve the same results in an urban setting and is the only one of its kind nationally to receive CDC funding. As the program progresses, UF Health providers will collect data that may one day revolutionize how we tackle HIV and improve the way we care for patients, ensuring they receive the compassion, respect and high-quality health care everyone deserves.

Sincerely,

Leon L. Haley Jr., MD, MHSA, CPE, FACEP