Care Clinic
The Will County Community Health Center’s Care Clinic specializes in providing access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in prevention of contracting the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). We also offer testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) and HIV care and case management while also offering general infectious disease (ID) consultations and treatment
CARE CLINIC INFORMATION
About the Care Clinic
The Will County Community Health Center Care Clinic works in partnership with our Health Department’s HIV/STI Prevention program to utilize best practices in the prevention and treatment of HIV, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promotes high quality services for the health and wellbeing of those living with and impacted by HIV and STIs.
Care Clinic Staff
Dan Garganera, a certified internal medicine and adult infectious diseases specialist since 2002, directs the ID/Care Clinic. Dr. Garganera previously worked in private practice while also serving as the Medical Director in the Infection Control Department at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet. Since 2015, he has served as the Medical Advisor for the Will County Health Department and also as the Medical Director at Will County’s Sunny Hill Tuberculosis Clinic.
The ID/Care Clinic team also consists of Kendra Coleman, Program Coordinator for HIV/STI/PrEP/PEP), Erin Dryer, AFC Case Manager Supervisor/Program Coordinator for Infectious Diseases, and several Certified Medical Assistants and STI/HIV Educators.
Hours & Location
Care Clinic Hours are Monday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Tuesdays and Thursday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm and Fridays from 8:30 am to 1:00 p.m.
The Care Clinic is located at the Will County Community Health Center (1106 Neal Ave.) in Joliet.
Scheduling An Appointment
Appointments can be made by calling 815-727-8670.
HIV/STI Testing & Treatment
Our Care Clinic offers testing and treatment for both HIV and STIs. The clinic also offers education and counseling for both HIV/STIs and free condoms.
PrEP/PEP
What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is medication for people who do not have HIV that significantly lowers their chances of getting infected. When used as prescribed, PrEP is about 99% effective at preventing HIV infection through sex and reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% among people who inject drugs. Our Care Clinic currently offers daily pills (Descovy or Truvada) and injectable (Apretude) PrEP options. Weekly appointments are available at our Care Clinic to access PrEP.
What is PEP?
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is the use of antiretroviral drugs after a single high-risk event to stop HIV seroconversion after a possible exposure. PEP must be started as soon as possible to be effective—and always within 72 hours of a possible exposure. When taken as directed PEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV by more than 80%. PEP must be taken as directed for 28 days. Skipping doses makes PEP less likely to work. You will be able to get PEP at our Care Clinic.
Getting Access to PrEP/PEP
Cost and access to medication can be a challenge for many people. If you need help to afford your medication, our Care Clinic has assistance for you. Our Care Clinic has access to financial assistance programs including, but not limited to: Gilead, PrEP4Illinois, VIIV Connect, etc. Medication and scheduled lab testing will either be free or at a reduce cost.Our Care Clinic offers testing and treatment for both HIV and STIs. The clinic also offers education and counseling for both HIV/STIs and free condoms.
Infectious Disease Care
The Care Clinic began offering infectious disease consultations in 2024. Patients that are dealing with any type of infection can be seen, including but not limited to urinary tract infections (UTIs), pneumonia, sinusitis, wound infection, diabetic foot ulcers, cellulitis, wound and post-operative infections, fungal and mycobacterial infections, prosthetic joint infections, strep throat and viral infections like Cytomegalorvirus (CMV), Flu, COVID-19 and Mpox, to name just some of the conditions our care clinic staff can manage.
Medical Case Management
Our Ryan White Case Managers help patients navigate various HIV+ related services in their community and to get access to the services they need.
Case management includes:
- Assistance with medication to manage patient’s HIV
- Medication adherence programs
- Financial assistance
- Referrals for medical care and reengagement
- Assistance with food, housing, and other services
