Ending the HIV Epidemic

Program Overview

The Satcher Health Leadership Institute (SHLI) at Morehouse School of Medicine is leading the way to address structural barriers that exist within Black communities in the Southern United States regarding HIV testing, treatment, and ongoing care. Equipped with a dynamic HIV Equity Taskforce, SHLI examines how health equity plays a role in health systems, policy, and data gaps for people living with HIV (PLWHA).

Research shows that inequities drive higher rates of HIV infection, as well as worse HIV clinical outcomes among Black Americans. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted and exacerbated such health inequities, especially in the Southern United States.

Training Objectives

We train diverse health professionals to understand and address the social and political determinants of health, empowering them to create lasting, solutions-focused policies that advance HIV health equity. Through educational opportunities, collaborative partnerships, resources, advocacy, and active community engagement, SHLI ensures that everyone has the opportunity to THRIVE.

Our efforts focus on closing critical gaps in care by:

• Increasing access and utilization of culturally competent healthcare to Black people impacted by the HIV epidemic
• Gaining insight into the disruption of healthcare delivery systems due to COVID-19 in the Black community and realigning HIV services in the current climate
• Influencing clinical provider training in HIV care
• Initiating early engagement with experienced clinicians practicing in Black communities in Georgia

Strategic solutions include:

• Increasing access to care through asset hazard mapping
• Enhancing clinical provider training in HIV
• Policy education and assessment of legislation impacting PLWHA
• Early engagement initiatives with clinicians

Training Modes

• HIV Health Equity Leadership Development Program (Currently Active)
• Organizational Workshops (Late Summer/Early Fall 2025)
• Policy Core Webinar Series (Ongoing)

Targeted Learners

• Healthcare Professionals and Trainees
• Health Navigators
• Social Service Providers
• Community Leaders and Organizers
• Policymakers and Influencers