HHS has launched a comprehensive digital tool, called Positive Spin, which uses personal storytelling to promote the treatment of patients with HIV.
The project was developed by AIDS.gov, using input from federal agencies, healthcare professionals, HIV patients and community-based HIV organizations.
The digital tool provides personal experiences from five HIV-positive, gay black men who were diagnosed and treated for HIV and who have achieved viral suppression through the HIV care continuum. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, black, gay, and bisexual men are disproportionately affected by the domestic HIV epidemic.
HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell commented on the personal narratives, saying, "These compelling and emotionally engaging stories will serve as an important tool in helping to counter the misconceptions, stigma and discrimination that continue to create significant barriers to HIV testing and treatment for all populations."
Positive Spin — which supports President Barack Obama's HIV Care Continuum Initiative, the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, and the Digital Government Strategy — is designed to be easily readable on mobile devices and includes videos, infographics and links to federal resources.