Power of Safe Spaces in Health and Healing

Critical care and support for at-risk communities break the virus chain.

Diagnostics|Jan. 14, 2025

Everyone needs a safe space - a place of refuge, community, and support. Such spaces are essential, as vital as the air we breathe or the water we drink. They can offer a sense of belonging and access to critical resources, especially for vulnerable populations facing challenges in their lives. For those at risk of infectious diseases such as HIV, a safe space can mean the ability to choose community over isolation, help over neglect. It is with this understanding that a collaboration between Abbott and YRGCARE has taken root, cultivating vital safe spaces in the heart of Delhi and the hills of Aizawl.

The Blue Shed of Yamuna Bazar

In Delhi's Yamuna Bazar, a hotspot for HIV transmission among a largely transient population, stands the "Blue Shed", a center that caters amongst others, to people at a high risk for HIV and hepatitis transmission. The Blue Shed is not just a clinic; it's a lifeline for those who may have fallen through the cracks of traditional care.

The facility offers a comprehensive approach to healthcare by providing on-site medical testing capabilities. This allows for the rapid detection of known and emerging infectious diseases, enabling quicker diagnosis and initiation of treatment for those seeking care. The quick turnaround time for test results is particularly beneficial, as it can be challenging for some individuals to schedule and attend multiple follow-up visits. By having these testing services available on-site, patients are able to receive timely results and begin the appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays. The goal is to provide a streamlined and accessible healthcare experience that addresses the needs of the community in a holistic manner.

Beyond testing, the Blue Shed offers doctor consultations, allowing individuals to receive medical advice and care in a non-judgmental/unbiased environment that enables a safe interaction between patients and doctors. Social services and counseling are made available, providing much-needed support for those grappling with addiction, homelessness, or other challenges. To ensure both safety and comfort, daily meals and access to clean, hygienic shower facilities are also offered. These amenities address essential needs, contributing to overall health and well-being of the vulnerable population.

The Blue Shed doesn't stop at immediate care; it serves as a bridge to longer-term treatment options, providing linkages to government-run Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). When needed, connections to tuberculosis treatments are also made accessible. With over 600 individuals already registered and numbers growing daily, the impact of this facility is quite tangible.

Aizawl's Youth-Focused Center

Meanwhile, in Mizoram's capital city of Aizawl, a different but equally vital center has opened its doors as well. This facility focuses on a particularly vulnerable group: at-risk youth. Recognizing that adolescents face unique challenges when it comes to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, the Aizawl center is designed to support young people's health and well-being. Testing is offered through the support of the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition, ensuring that youth have access to the latest diagnostic facilities. But the center goes beyond just testing, offering access to treatment, healthcare services, counseling, and mental health support. Guidance programs are also provided, giving them the information and skills to envision a bright future and navigate their health journey with confidence.

With over 1,600 young people already enrolled and numbers continuing to rise, this enthusiastic uptake underscores the critical need for youth-focused health services in the region.

Both the Delhi and Aizawl centers represent a shift in approach to public health. As Sunil Solomon, Chairman of YRGCARE, explains, "We recognized that meeting more of their needs and transitioning from a disease focus to a person focus could have a better opportunity to get them connected to healthcare and counseling." It’s a holistic approach that integrates crucial services like nutritious meals, clean hygiene facilities, and mental health support, creating an all-encompassing support system and an empowering healthcare experience.

Transforming tomorrow with care

The collaboration between Abbott and YRGCARE in establishing these centers is part of a larger initiative: the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition. This industry-led global partnership aims to advance scientific research and provide support to end epidemics and help prevent future pandemics.

Dr. Gavin Cloherty, Head of Infectious Disease Research at Abbott's diagnostic business, emphasizes the importance of this work: "By ensuring more people who have HIV and other infectious diseases understand their status and have access to treatment, we can help stop the spread of this virus."

As these centers continue to develop, they embody the critical need for safe and supportive spaces for individuals at risk. By prioritizing compassion and a person-centered approach, they not only address immediate health needs but also foster a sense of security and belonging. In a country where over 2.3 million people live with HIV, creating such environments is not just beneficial—it is essential. Abbott and YRGCARE are not just combating the spread of HIV and other infectious diseases – they're restoring dignity, offering hope, and building healthier communities for the future.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive /for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.