“Red Carpet”           

“Red Carpet” is the name given to Whitman-Walker’s “rapid visits” system for patients who are new to Whitman-Walker and newly diagnosed with HIV. Under “Red Carpet,” these patients are seen by their entire care team on their first visit.

Patients who are new and want to get HIV/AIDS care can walk in to either Whitman-Walker site and ask for “Red Carpet.” They do not need to mention HIV in any way. Our staff will start them through the process.

The new patient first meets with a Medical Adherence nurse, who answers questions about the client's diagnosis and gathers information about the client's health and previous care. 

If the new patient is uninsured, they meet with a Public Benefits Coordinator who screens them for insurance eligibility and, if eligible, enrolls them in all applicable public health insurance programs or assigns them to Whitman-Walker's sliding fee scale based on their income if they are not eligible. 

The patient is seen by an HIV provider who evaluates the patient and orders lab tests.

The patient is scheduled for a follow-up appointment where their lab results are reviewed and a medical exam is conducted.  
  
“Red Carpet” has expanded to offer immediate connection to Whitman-Walker’s Legal Services Department. The HIV Legal Check-Up consists of a counseling session about the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS, a legal needs assessment and representation and/or referral to Clinic staff or pro bono attorneys when necessary. The goal is to prevent (or address as early as possible) discrimination and other legal issues so that they do not create barriers to treatment. 

To get “Red Carpet” services, visit either of our sites and ask the front desk staff for “Red Carpet.” You can also call 202.797.4439. Red Carpet services are available from 9:00 am-5:00 pm Monday through Friday.