Andromeda Health

Since its creation in 1970, Andromeda has impacted the lives of at least individuals and their families people- by helping them address alcohol and substance abuse addiction, mental illness, HIV and other chronic diseases. Its leadership advocated for increased prevention and health care funding and mental health and substance abuse services for Latinos and other migrants and low-income populations in the region. Andromeda’s strength has been demonstrated by providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services to immigrant families who have suffered post- traumatic stress disorder due to wars, migration and domestic violence. In the 1980s Andromeda linked community mental health services to Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital during the Mariel migration of Cuban refugees, making a successful model of care for this population. Andromeda’s mental health and psychiatric services served over 200 children and adolescents and their families. Andromeda’s HIV/AIDS program for fifteen years has been serving 260 patients a year who deal with HIV by providing comprehensive primary care, medical case management, substance abuse, mental health counseling, treatment adherence, nutrition and pharmacists on site. Patients are able to stay in treatment and effectively manage this chronic disease.