The primary goal of the 1917 Social Work Department is to help our patients obtain and maintain an undetectable viral load status. We do this by working with patients to identify and overcome barriers to attending their medical appointments and taking their HIV medications. Clinic social workers assist patients with transportation to medical appointments, access to health insurance, determining eligibility for Ryan White and other financial assistance programs. obtaining prescriptions, medical equipment, mental health support and referrals to community resources.

As part of their medical care team, every patient of the 1917 clinic is assigned a licensed social worker. All Medical Social Workers are licensed at the Master level by the Alabama Board of Social Work Examiners. The department adheres to the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics.

The social worker will complete an extensive psychosocial assessment with the patient that includes areas such as living situation, financial resources, mental health status and more. Once their social service needs are identified, an individualized treatment plan will be developed to combat these needs. 

The social Worker is also responsible for determining a patient’s eligibility for the Ryan White Part C grant. Eligibility is based on insurance status, income amount and residency in Alabama as outlined in the grant. The social worker will assess each patient’s Ryan White eligibility once every 6 months. Qualifying patients are required to provide valid income and residency statements annually. 

The Social Work Department operates Monday - Thursday 8am-5pm and Friday 8am-3pm. All social workers have direct phone numbers and are also accessible on the UAB patient portal. In order to ensure the social worker is available, patients are encouraged to make an appointment with their social worker. Please call the Transportation Service Line for transportation needs at 205-975-8667. Walk-in social services are available on a limited basis only.