WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has announced an allocation exceeding $1.4 billion for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. This substantial funding aims to provide essential medication and support services to low-income individuals with HIV, advancing efforts to reduce transmission and improve health outcomes.
The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program plays a pivotal role in the U.S. response to the HIV epidemic, supporting over half a million individuals annually. It facilitates access to antiretroviral therapies through the AIDS Drug Assistance Program, covering medication costs, co-pays, and insurance premiums. Without this support, HIV medication can cost individuals upwards of $40,000 per year, making it inaccessible to many. This program ensures access to life-saving treatments across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and several U.S. Pacific territories.
Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm highlighted the program’s significance during the 2024 National Ryan White Conference on HIV Care & Treatment in Washington, D.C., attended by over 6,500 stakeholders. “The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program is the cornerstone of this nation’s response to the HIV epidemic,” Palm stated. The program has consistently demonstrated its impact, with 89.6% of clients achieving viral suppression in 2022, a significant increase from 69.5% in 2010.
HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson emphasized the importance of affordability and accessibility in treatment. “We know what works and we know how to reach the communities that need these drugs – we just need to make sure they are affordable,” Johnson remarked. The program not only focuses on medical treatment but also addresses social determinants of health, such as housing and transportation, which are crucial for maintaining continuous care.
The National Ryan White Conference serves as a platform for sharing policy updates, innovative interventions, and best practices. Its theme, “Innovating to End the HIV Epidemic: Empowering Communities, Expanding Partnerships, Implementing Interventions,” reflects the collaborative and dynamic approach needed to tackle HIV-related health disparities.
The HRSA’s continued commitment to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program underscores its pivotal role in the national strategy to end the HIV epidemic, aligning with the Biden-Harris Administration’s objectives. By providing comprehensive support, the program empowers communities and improves the lives of individuals living with HIV across the nation.
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