With support and collaborative input from the Romanian Ministry of Health, the Constanta County Department of Sanitary Direction, Constanta Infectious Diseases Municipal Hospital, and many other individuals and organizations, Baylor's program in Romania has had a number of important accomplishments, including the following:
1. The landmark Romanian-American Children's Center was dedicated in Constanta, Romania, on April 6th, 2001, and was re-dedicated and renamed the Romanian Clinical Center of Excellence on December 6, 2007. This center provides HIV/AIDS care and treatment services to over 500 HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children and young adults, as well as a roster of complementary programs and support services. Sustaining funding for the Center of Excellence is provided by the Abbott Fund.
2. Baylor has established an HIV/AIDS International Laboratory Center of Excellence, based at the Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology in Bucharest. Dr. Simona Ruta serves as the founding director. This laboratory provides state-of-the-art testing for diagnosis and monitoring of pediatric HIV infection, as well as laboratory support for a variety of HIV/AIDS clinical research projects. A grant from the Abbott Fund financed the capital improvements for the HIV/AIDS International Laboratory Center.
3. Funding from Abbott Laboratories has allowed BIPAI to completely renovate the inpatient unit for children at the Constanta Municipal Hospital. Renovations include a new electrical system, new windows, new floors, and new furniture. These renovations have remarkably improved conditions for HIV-infected children requiring hospitalization.
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U.S. pediatric residents participate in HIV/AIDS training experiences in Romania
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4. Funding from Abbott Laboratories also allowed Baylor to purchase a family home in Lazu, Romania (just south of Constanta) for 11 abandoned, HIV-infected children who previously were in residence at the Constanta Municipal Hospital. The 3,000 square foot house sits on an acre of land that previously was used for playground equipment, farm animals, and a vegetable garden. Over time, the facility has transformed into a program that houses and teaches independent living skills to abandoned or orphaned HIV-infected adolescents. Additionally, the Baylor Habitat House includes three studio apartments for those who are now independent adults.
