Milwaukee-based Vivent Health, formerly the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, has acquired an Austin-based AIDS service organization.
Under the deal, AIDS Services of Austin is now part of Vivent Health, which continues to grow its footprint nationally.
In 2017, the organization merged with Denver-based HIV/AIDS advocacy nonprofit Rocky Mountain Cares, followed by its merger with Saint Louis Effort for AIDS in 2018. In 2015, the then-AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin merged with the Madison-based AIDS Network.
In January, ARCW rebranded as Vivent Health. The organization now has 15 locations across Colorado, Missouri, Wisconsin and Texas.
By acquiring ASA, Vivent Health will expand its programs and services in Austin, including building an in-house pharmacy, adding five mental health therapists, increasing food pantry services to five days a week and serving 1,000 new patients. Current ASA board of directors will join the Vivent Health local advisory council.
“ASA has an impressive record of providing effective treatment and prevention programs and services for people affected by HIV/AIDS in Austin,” said Michael Gifford, president and chief executive officer of Vivent Health. “We are excited to join forces with them to expand and evolve the services they currently offer so together we can deliver the best outcomes for the people in Austin. We are stronger, and together, will help people with HIV thrive in pursuit of our vision of a world without AIDS.”
ASA, like many health care providers, has adjusted its operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization has committed to continuing to pay all employees during the crisis.
“We are excited to bring the HIV Medical Home model of care to the Austin community so the people we serve can thrive,” said Paul Scott, former CEO of ASA and now vice president of Texas for Vivent Health. “Honestly, we couldn’t have joined the Vivent Health family at a better time. Our current programs and services will increase in the months to come, including offering a pharmacy and expanded PrEP services which will allow us to stay committed to the health and well-being of anyone impacted by HIV/AIDS in central Texas well into the future.”
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