The TAG program, which stands for Treatment, Acceptance, and Guidance, is a linkage program through the Comprehensive Family AIDS Program at the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center. The program is designed for young men who are attracted to other men, ages 13 to 24, who have recently been diagnosed as HIV positive. The program is organized and coordinated by a linkage coordinator, who will
contact youth MSM (males who have sex with males) in Broward County, ages 13 to 24 who test positive for HIV, and ensure that they are brought into the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center for an initial medical visit. Early linkage to care will help suppress viral loads and prevent the spread of the virus. The TAG linkage coordinator will then support youth in retention of care and treatment by including mental health and substance abuse treatment and counseling, as well as ensuring case management of resources, such as food and housing. The linkage coordinator will assist with services provided to the youth available through CDTC and other local agencies. The linkage coordinator will also establish a mentor relationship with the young men in the program to provide ongoing support and a stable male figure in their life. The linkage coordinator will also stress treatment adherence to prevent resistance to HIV medication.
