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Drug Assistance Program

All articles tagged with #drug assistance program

health3 hours ago•4 min saved

Emergency rule cuts AIDS drug aid, affecting thousands in Florida

Florida’s Department of Health issued an emergency rule narrowing the AIDS Drug Assistance Program eligibility from 400% to 130% of the federal poverty level, cutting about 12,000 low-income HIV/AIDS patients off affordable medications starting March 1 as a lawsuit over the changes proceeds. The move bypasses standard rulemaking, drawing criticism that it’s budget-driven and could worsen transmission and drug resistance; some Medicare-insured patients remain eligible up to 400% FPL, and the program’s health-insurance component is being eliminated.

via Tampa Bay Times|

#aids #drug-assistance-program #emergency-rule

health23 days ago•9 min saved

Florida tightens HIV drug aid, risking treatment for thousands

Florida is narrowing eligibility for its HIV Drug Assistance Program, risking coverage for about 16,000 residents; starting March 1, only households earning up to 130% of the federal poverty line (about $21,000) will qualify, down from 400% (around $64,000). The move comes as ACA subsidies expire and drug costs rise, threatening uninterrupted antiretroviral treatment for patients like Tori Samuel and potentially increasing viral rebound and transmission. State officials say the changes prevent a funding shortfall amid rising costs, while advocates warn the policy could undermine public health and prompt legal challenges.

via The Washington Post|

#drug-assistance-program #florida #health