Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I do not have a full-blown AIDS diagnosis. Can I still
get help from GMHC?
A: Absolutely. We have a full range of services
for people whatever their HIV status. Whether you are HIV-positive,
have an AIDS diagnosis, are HIV-negative, don't know your status
or are affected by HIV, there is something for you at GMHC. Many
services at GMHC are open to all people, including trainings,
workshops, seminars, forums, the Hotline,
a Treatment Library and
even ear-point acupuncture.
However, some services are only for HIV-positive men and women and
do require that you participate in a special registration
process to become a registered GMHC client through the Access,
Assessment and Supportive Services Department.
Q: If I become a client, what types of services and programs
are available to me?
A: GMHC offers just about every supportive service
you can think of, from support groups to entitlements counseling,
and if we don't offer it we can probably help you connect to it
elsewhere. The best way to learn about GMHC services is to explore
the programs and services
section of our website or call the Hotline.
Q: Does GMHC have services for women?
A: Absolutely. Almost all of our services can
be used by women or men and we even have services designed specifically
for women. The Women and Family
Services Department has services for HIV-positive women, HIV-negative
women, children, women who want to work on substance abuse issues,
and lesbian specific groups and activities.
Q: Can I get a doctor at GMHC?
A: Even though we are not a primary medical care
facility, we can help you get connected to medical care. We can
also help you get connected to health insurance if you don't have
any. We work with a lot of different HIV and LGBT sensitive medical
clinics to help you get good care. One place you might want to look
into is the Chelsea Center for Special Studies at 212-746-7200,
conveniently located on the first floor of GMHC's Tisch building.
Q: Can I use GMHC services if I don't have any money or
health insurance?
A: Absolutely! All GMHC services are free and
only one specific program requires that participants have Medicaid.
Q: I heard GMHC provides free legal services. Is this true?
A: Yes it is true. We provide a range of free
legal services around issues including landlord/tenant, discrimination,
estate planning, family law and immigration. The GMHC
Legal Department offers services both on and off site in Brooklyn,
Queens, and the Bronx.
Q: Can I get housing from GMHC?
A: Finding housing can be a difficult process.
Even though GMHC does not directly provide housing, we can still
help you. At GMHC you can get help figuring out what entitlements
you might be eligible for, receive advocacy and support during the
application process, and get assistance in connecting to services
that directly provide housing.
Q: I didn't get an ID card. How do I access services?
A: Right now, only two programs, the Meals
Program and the
Learning Center, require you to have an ID card. An ID card
is provided during the orientation for these programs. You do not
need an ID card to access services in GMHC’s other programs.
Q: What can I do if I'm having a difficulty with a GMHC staff member or volunteer?
A: GMHC is committed to providing quality services to all clients. GMHC encourages an Open Door policy for clients when there is a grievance or disagreement with a decision. Click here to download the GMHC Client Grievance Procedure.
Q: How do I find out who my social worker is?
A: All people will access GMHC services differently
and most don't have one person or social worker assigned to them.
We will work with you to develop a unique plan with services that
address your needs.
© 2007 Gay Men's Health Crisis
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