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Denver Health HIV Program Sparks Safety Concerns
A Denver Health program paying drug users for HIV tests sparks safety concerns among residents of a mixed-use building, leading to calls for relocation.
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United States
Human Rights ViolationsUs PoliticsHealthPublic HealthRelocationDrug UseSafety ConcernsCommunity Issues
Denver HealthCenters For Disease Control And Prevention (Cdc)Reach Program
Chris SpechtEric CadmanDr. Bob Belknap
- What is Denver Health's response to the residents' complaints?
- Dr. Belknap from Denver Health attributes resident concerns to the broader issue of homelessness in the area, not the program itself. He emphasizes the program's importance in collecting crucial data and connecting individuals to care.
- What is the residents' ultimate demand regarding the REACH program?
- Residents are demanding the program's relocation, citing safety concerns and arguing the current location is inappropriate. They question the use of taxpayer money for a program that, in their view, worsens the problem.
- What are the residents' primary concerns regarding the REACH program?
- Residents report increased drug use, violence, and vandalism since the program's implementation. They feel unsafe and believe the program exacerbates existing neighborhood issues.
- What incentives does the Denver Health REACH program offer participants?
- The Denver Health program, REACH, pays drug users $35 for an HIV test and survey, and up to $100 for recruiting others. Residents complain this attracts drug activity to their building, increasing safety concerns.
- Why is the program located in a residential building instead of on the Denver Health campus?
- The program is located in a mixed-use residential building because it's more accessible to the target population compared to a medical campus. Denver Health's lease runs until 2026.