CAPASITS in Culiacán extends hours to improve care for patients with HIV/AIDS.

In a significant step towards improving care for patients with HIV/AIDS in Sinaloa, the Ambulatory Center for the Prevention and Care of AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (CAPASITS) in Culiacán has decided to extend its hours of operation by establishing an evening shift. This change, announced by the state health secretary, Cuitláhuac González Galindo, responds to the need to provide greater access to approximately 2,700 patients receiving antiretroviral treatments, many of whom belong to the economically active population. The new schedule aims to facilitate access to medications for those patients who, due to their work responsibilities, may have difficulty attending appointments during morning hours. "We have made the decision to increase the shift at CAPASITS in Culiacán, creating an afternoon shift, which will allow us to care for 200 more patients who are already coming in for treatment," González Galindo stated. This initiative reflects a clear commitment from the state government to ensure that treatment is not interrupted and that patients maintain adherence to it. Since its opening, CAPASITS has demonstrated an effective response to the demand for services, leading to the hiring of additional staff to cover both shifts. González Galindo emphasized that the supply of antiretroviral medications is constant and reliable, currently reaching 98% availability. This aspect is crucial for the health of patients, who depend on the regularity of their medication to control the infection and prevent serious complications. In the context of his speech, the health secretary also reported that so far in 2024, 400 new cases of HIV have been diagnosed, all of whom are already receiving treatment. This highlights not only the importance of early detection but also the need for a healthcare system that responds quickly and efficiently to the needs of patients. Timely care is essential in managing HIV, as it can make the difference between a healthy life and severe complications. CAPASITS Culiacán is located on Boulevard Lola Beltrán, next to the Sinaloa Psychiatric Hospital, and offers free care from Monday to Friday with continuous hours from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. This strategic location allows patients to access complementary services and the comprehensive care they require. In addition to extending hours at CAPASITS, the state government has made other significant efforts in the healthcare sector. During the same conference, the operation of a second linear accelerator at the Sinaloan Institute of Cancerology was announced, which promises to shorten wait times for radiation therapy for cancer patients in Sinaloa and throughout the northwest region of the country. These initiatives are part of a broader effort by the state government to improve public health and ensure that all citizens have access to necessary treatments regardless of their economic or employment status. The implementation of evening shifts at CAPASITS is a clear example of how healthcare services can be adapted to the needs of the population. Patients have received this announcement with optimism, considering that their voices are being heard and their realities taken into account. Health is a fundamental right, and actions like this are steps in the right direction towards more inclusive and accessible medical care. The positive response from the community and the collaboration among different health institutions also highlight the importance of teamwork in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The synergy between public administration, healthcare professionals, and the patients themselves is essential to effectively face this public health challenge.