Information for Patients

If you are uninsured, living with HIV and live in Los Angeles County, there is a valuable health care resource available to you.  The Los Angeles County CHAIN – Medical Subspecialty Services Referral Program provides specialty care for HIV-related health conditions through a network of almost 500 participating providers throughout Los Angeles County.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is contracted with the Los Angeles County Division of HIV and STD Program (DHSP) to administer the CHAIN Program.

How the CHAIN Program Works

If your doctor at a Los Angeles County clinic determines you need covered specialty care, and you are eligible for CHAIN services, he or she will refer you to a participating specialist.

What the CHAIN Program Covers

The CHAIN Program covers doctor office visits for these specialties:

  • Cardiology
  • Colorectal/Proctology
  • Dermatology
  • Endocrinology
  • Gastroenterology
  • General Surgery
  • Gynecology
  • Hepatology
  • Neurology
  • Nephrology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopedics
  • Otolaryngology (ENT)
  • Pain Management
  • Podiatry
  • Pulmonary
  • Rheumatology
  • Urology

The CHAIN Program covers outpatient surgery for HIV-related health conditions.  The program also covers limited diagnostic imaging tests such as the following:

  • Ultrasound
  • Echocardiography
  • CT Scan
  • MRI
  • DEXA Bone Scan

What the CHAIN Program Does Not Cover

The CHAIN Program does not cover hospitalization, emergency and urgent care and the following services, some of which are available through Los Angeles County clinics:

  • Acupuncture
  • Chemotherapy
  • Chiropractic Services
  • Dental Care
  • Emergency Care
  • Holistic Health Care
  • Home Health Care
  • Hospice
  • Inpatient Services
  • Medical Supplies
  • Mental/Behavioral Health Services
  • Obstetrics
  • Oncology
  • Pediatrics
  • Prescription Drugs
  • Primary and Routine Health Care
  • Rehabilitation Services
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Substance Abuse or Addition Treatment
  • Transportation
  • Vision Care

How to Apply for CHAIN Program Coverage

If you live in Los Angeles County, are living with HIV, and have no health insurance, you may be eligible for CHAIN coverage.  If you need CHAIN covered services, you can apply for CHAIN through your Los Angeles County clinic.  The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health determines eligibility.

For More Information

For more information about the CHAIN Program, ask your Los Angeles County clinic doctor or call AHF Patient Relations at (800) 263-0067, option 3, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  TTY users call 711.