On Wednesday, December 11, 2019, the DC CFAR hosted the Citywide Seminar: Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE). The keynote address entitled, "Epidemic Control in DC and Beyond: What Will It Take to Truly End the HIV Epidemic?" was delivered by Dr. Carl W. Dieffenbach, Director of the NIH Division of AIDS (DAIDS). The event brought together colleagues from academic institutions, government and community organizations. The seminar also served as the official kick-off to the DC CFAR EHE Scientific Working Group (SWG), which is led by Dr. Amanda Castel (GW), and co-led by Mr. Michael Kharfen (DC Health) and Ms. Marcia Ellis, DC CFAR Community Coordinator and CAB Chair. During a panel discussion, the SWG leaders talked about their roles and vision to foster high impact multi-disciplinary research initiatives through the SWG. Additionally, the SWG looks to stimulate research and expand collaborations. The SWG will meet regularly in the new year, with remote access available. DC CFAR and Community members are encouraged to join.
Dr. Castel also moderated an EHE supplement project director panel followed by an open discussion with audience members. Project Directors shared their innovative strategies and provided project updates. The projects included:
- A City-wide Approach to HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Scale-Up in Multiple High-Risk Communities in Washington, DC - Sarah Henn (WWH)
- City-wide Expansion of Rapid Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation in the District of Columbia - Rupali Doshi (DC Health/GW)
- The Development of Responsive Health Department HIV Data to Action Strategies Through Community Engagement - Brittani Saafir-Callaway and Adam Allston (DC Health)
- Puerto Rico/DC Government/Community/Academic Partnership (GCAP) for comprehensive HIV prevention and Response - Carlos Rodriguez-Diaz (GW)
Thanks to all who participated in this special event!
Read about the NIH CFAR Ending the HIV Epidemic Supplements.
Are you interested in joining the EHE SWG? Contact DC CFAR Center Associate Lorena Segarra.