Why Some American Men Still Don't Know They're HIV Positive
Men's Health
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
HIV remains a significant concern in America, not because effective tools are lacking, but because many men fall through the cracks of conventional healthcare. These individuals often face housing instability, mental health challenges, substance use issues, and other barriers that prevent consistent access to care. Traditional clinic-based systems require stability, appointments, and proper identification, which can be insurmountable for those living on the margins. This disconnect leaves many men unaware of their HIV status or unable to stay engaged in treatment.
Street medicine emerges as a promising solution, delivering care directly to where these men are—such as shelters, streets, or public spaces. By removing access barriers like appointments and ID requirements, street-based programs make it easier for disengaged individuals to receive testing, prevention, and treatment on the spot. Same-day treatment initiation reduces drop-offs and builds trust within communities that have often been failed by the healthcare system.
Despite its proven success, street medicine remains underutilized due to structural barriers. Funding models prioritize facility-based care over fieldwork, making it difficult for programs to secure resources. Additionally, workforce shortages and a lack of training pipelines for street-based healthcare providers further hinder implementation. These challenges highlight the need for systemic changes to make care more accessible and equitable.
The importance of addressing this gap cannot
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Originally published on Men's Health on 2/24/2026