Protecting our Patients (POP)
POP mobilizes care teams to address biases and stigmas that harm the health experiences and outcomes of people in our care, including ourselves. POP initiatives promote practices that improve patient experiences and support comprehensive care. This has primarily included: 1) integrating routine HIV screening into general healthcare and 2) providing affirming care for all, especially those who have been systematically marginalized.
POP uses an innovative model that combines storytelling, training, peer support, specially curated visual art, and communication strategies.
PHIMC recently piloted two POP initiatives by integrating them into organizations and clinics across Illinois. Initial pilot program evaluations by independent researchers showed great results in changing perceptions and reducing stigmas and biases among care providers. The innovative use of culture shift ambassadors, or Champions, increases efficacy in reducing provider-level stigma, bias, and judgment. The POP initiatives change perceptions and practice to provide the highest level of care to all patients.
Explore this website to learn more about how you can bring POP to your care setting. For more information, please contact us.
