Locational Analysis: Background

In 2003, African American women represented nearly half of new HIV infections among women in the United States (CDC, 2004). An analysis of support services for women living with HIV/AIDS within the city of Chicago was conducted in 2004.

Purpose

A locational analysis specifically assesses what is available in a given area. This study used Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to assess the availability of support services in relation to where African American women living with HIV/AIDS are located.

Sample of Support Services

Twenty-five categories of support services for women living with HIV/AIDS were included in this analysis. Services included alternative therapies, case management, children and family services, dental care, long term care, home health care, hospitals, housing placement and transportation.

Results

Some areas on the South side of Chicago had 0-2 services available. In most regions of Chicago, 14% of the support services are not accessible within a mile radius or in the neighboring community to AA women with HIV/AIDS.

The inequity of HIV/AIDS support services in Chicago communities reduces the accessibility for AA women to these support services.

Study Implications

The gap in accessibility to services weakens the link to HIV/AIDS prevention and increases the risk for HIV infection. Follow up studies are warranted to assess the needs of medically undeserved populations.