Location/Telephone Number: 1002 E. Seneca, Seattle, WA  98122; 206/57-1688

Year Program Started: 1983            Principal RD: Maria College, MS, RD, CD

Web Site:  http://www.lifelongaidsalliance.org/        Hours on Site:  32 hrs/week

Patient Referral Source: Case managers, self-referral, and community physicians 

Number of Clients and Population Served: There are 1,452 clients (99% adult males; 1% female). The client population is comprised of 59% white, 11% African American and 7% Hispanic.

Funding Source: Ryan White, United Way, Positive Helpings, MAC, individual contributions, and in-kind donations

How often are patients seen?  Quarterly or as needed.

Are all patients screened for nutritional risk? Yes

How often do you provide nutritional assessments and follow-ups? These consults vary according to the individual. 
 

What has been your most difficult issue? Upon arrival from a clinical setting, Ms. College found it difficult to access a client’s medical record conveniently.

Who is your best ally?  Ms. College finds the Director of Client Services at the agency a strong proponent of nutrition. In addition, the Food Service Program and the head chef are wonderful to work with.

What differences exist between current clientele and that of the HIV-positive person in the early 1980s?  During her three-year tenure, Ms. College has noticed that there has been a steady increase in the number of IV drug users and/or Hispanic males.

Are there any differences in clinical care within your population group? According to Ms. College, Lifelong AIDS Alliance has vast differences in health status within the clientele since it is a community nutrition setting. She prefers to devise a nutrition care plan according to the client’s health status among many other things. 

Is someone involved in program operation actively involved with the local HIV/AIDS Health Services Planning Council? Currently, the Client Services Director is involved with the local HIV/AIDS Health Services Planning Council.

Do you participate regularly in HIV/AIDS networking groups? “Yes, I am part of a local HIV dietitians group that meets once a month to discuss current issues. I’m also a member of the HIV/AIDS Dietetic Practice Group through the ADA.”

What have you found to be most useful in helping to keep up with the current research on nutrition and HIV? “I try and keep up on all current research on HIV in general. I consult with other HIV dietitians and get Medline and CDC email updates daily. I read different publications, do continuing education and consult frequently with other health care providers in our community.”