HIV & Veterans with Dr. Theddeus Iheanacho

In this episode of Getting2U, we take a closer look at HIV and Aging among Veterans, with a special focus on care within the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system. Co-hosts Peta-Gaye Tomlinson and Dante Gennaro are joined by Dr. Theddeus “Dr. Ted” Iheanacho, Associate Professor Adjunct of Psychiatry at Yale University, who brings deep expertise in psychiatry and veteran health. Together, they explore the prevalence of HIV among Veterans receiving VA services, the VA’s approach to routine HIV testing and PrEP, and how VA policies compare to Connecticut’s opt-out HIV testing guidelines. The conversation also addresses confidentiality, partner notification, follow-up after new diagnoses, and the critical role of wraparound services- such as housing, mental health care, and substance use treatment- in supporting Veterans to achieve and maintain viral suppression. This episode highlights the unique challenges and opportunities in HIV prevention and care for aging Veterans, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals working to improve outcomes across this population. For more information, please visit www.va.gov/hiv. If you have a topic you’d like us to discuss or want to share feedback, please email us at [email protected].