The parallel universe of homeless and HIV-positive youth.
The HIV/AIDS crisis among teens in this country is alarming, but the rates are even more staggering when these youth are homeless. They tend to live in a world typically considered by those trying to care for them-family, friends, and healthcare providers-as unreachable and hopeless. This article seeks to present "their world" to health professionals in attempts to depict it not as inaccessible, but as a sensitive one that takes great care and support in order for contact to be successful. Their words and those of individuals who have tried to make this connection are used to facilitate the presentation.
Ebner
Deborah L
DL
Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Adolescent Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA. dlebner@TexasChildrensHospital.org
Laviage
Marcia M
MM
D000293:Adolescent; D016497:Adolescent Health Services; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000523:psychology*; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D018453:Homeless Youth / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group