CASE-MANAGEMENT OF HIV-INFECTED CHILDREN IN MISSOURI

The early referral of HIV-exposed children and their mothers to coordi nated medical and social services has become increasingly important. I n July 1989, the Missouri Department of Health initiated the Service C oordination Program to provide individualized referral (case managemen t) for Missouri residents who were reported to have acquired immunodef iciency syndrome (AIDS) or HIV infection. The purpose of the Service C oordination Program is to assist persons in accessing medical and soci al services. The authors describe the characteristics of the 36 childr en (18 enrolled in the Service Coordination Program, and 18 not enroll ed) reported to the Missouri Department of Health through September 19 92. Although more detailed evaluations are necessary, preliminary data suggest that opportunities for early intervention may be facilitated by the Service Coordination Program if the child's HIV status is recog nized early.