FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Project of Primary Health Care Appoints Becky Johnson as Clinical Director, Marking a New Era in HIV Care
Des Moines, IA – August 23, 2019 – The Project of Primary Health Care proudly announces the appointment of Becky Johnson, DNP, ARNP, as the new Clinical Director. Johnson, a veteran healthcare provider with over 15 years of dedicated service to Iowans living with HIV, is set to lead a new chapter in comprehensive and compassionate care for patients at The Project.
Johnson’s experience is unparalleled. In 2012, she played a pivotal role in merging the Primary Health Care HIV program with the AIDS Project of Central Iowa. Her hands-on experience spans nearly every role within The Project—from HIV prevention specialist and case manager to nurse care manager and director. Now, as Clinical Director, Johnson brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to providing patient-centered, high-quality care for individuals living with HIV.
“I’m excited to return to The Project on a daily basis,” Johnson remarked. “Helping Iowans living with HIV has always been my passion, and I’m eager to continue this work alongside such a dedicated team.”
This transition comes as David Yurdin, PA-C, AAHIVS, long-time Clinical Director of The Project, steps into a part-time mentoring role. Yurdin will focus on guiding new providers within The Project and PHC, while continuing to advocate for the integration of HIV care with primary healthcare, prevention, and quality health screenings for aging individuals living with HIV.
“Becky’s passion for serving those living with HIV is unmatched,” said Yurdin. “Her leadership will undoubtedly strengthen the care we provide, and I am confident The Project is in exceptional hands under her direction.”
In addition to her leadership role at The Project, Johnson will continue her work at PHC, providing transgender health care, women’s health services, and medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder.
About The Project of Primary Health Care
The Project of Primary Health Care offers confidential, free or low-cost services for HIV/STI prevention and care. PHC is a nonprofit community health center with 15 locations in Ames, Des Moines, and Marshalltown. For more than 35 years, PHC has provided comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and HIV care, bridging the gaps in care for Iowa’s insured, uninsured, and underinsured communities.