Special Immunology Unit and HIV Services

More Than 35 Years Serving the HIV Community of Northeast Ohio

The John T. Carey Special Immunology Unit was established in 1985 to address the growing need in our community for primary medical care for individuals with HIV infection. In 1989, Dr. John T. Carey assumed leadership of the Special Immunology Unit and his excellence as a physician and HIV educator helped establish the SIU as the premier facility for HIV care in our community. Dr. Carey remained the director of the SIU until his untimely death in September 1995. The SIU was renamed The John T. Carey Special Immunology Unit in his honor. In January 1997, Barbara Gripshover, MD, assumed the role of director.

Currently, the SIU is one of the largest providers of primary care to individuals with HIV in northern Ohio and one of the largest in the Midwest. Our team is dedicated to providing total care for persons with HIV and at-risk individuals, all available in one convenient location.

Since the program’s inception, the Special Immunology Unit has been dedicated to improving our understanding and treatment of HIV/AIDS through research and clinical trials. We are also working to address the social and psychological impact of HIV/AIDS, destigmatizing the disease, and breaking down barriers to care.

HIV Testing, Prevention and Other Services

The Special Immunology Unit provides a range of services, including HIV testing, a PrEP clinic and individual risk counseling for HIV prevention, comprehensive care and treatment for HIV positive patients, including both primary and specialty care, and a range of supportive services.

Our Team

The Special Immunology Unit is led by a dedicated team of physicians, nurses and social workers. A dietician, pharmacist and financial coordinator are also available to all patients based on their needs.

Financial Assistance for HIV Services

The Special Immunology Unit provides care to individuals with HIV regardless of ability to pay for services. For those that are uninsured or underinsured, the Special Immunology Unit receives federal, state and local money to provide comprehensive primary medical care which includes but is not limited to:

• Physician appointments
• Radiology services
• Dental care
• Nurse care coordination
• Case management
• Nutritional counseling
• Laboratory testing
• Assistance with obtaining medications

Patient Confidentiality

All information at the Special Immunology Unit is strictly confidential. We realize the private nature of all patient information and make it our priority to maintain confidentiality. Patient charts and information are not shared with other healthcare providers without a release of information from the patient.