On behalf of the patients we serve who are living with HIV, hepatitis, cancer, lupus, autoimmune diseases, and other serious chronic and complex conditions, we write to share recommendations to address global COVID-19 vaccine equity and access barriers. While we commend the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Office of the United States Trade Representative for prioritizing efforts to improve vaccine access, it must not come at the expense of waiving intellectual property (IP) protections. To do so would have unprecedented effects on future medical development.
Letter in support of HIV and hepatitis provisions in the “Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act of 2022” (H.R. 7666)
The HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute, a national, non-profit organization whose mission is to promote quality and affordable healthcare for people living with or at risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other serious and chronic health conditions, is pleased to offer comments in support of the HIV and viral hepatitis provisions included in the “Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act of 2022” (HR 7666). This bipartisan bill introduced by Chairman Frank Pallone and Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers reauthorizes key Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) programs to address the national mental health and substance use disorder crises. The subcommittee is expected to consider the bill tomorrow.
Letter in support of Minnesota’s HF 3611 to require insurers to count copay assistance towards patient costs
The HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute is a leading HIV and hepatitis policy organization promoting quality and affordable healthcare for people living with or at risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other serious and chronic health conditions. We strongly support House File 3611 which would require health insurers to accept and count payments made on behalf of patients towards deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
CMS responds to request for information regarding reporting on pharmacy benefits and prescription drug costs
On behalf of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), thank you for the letter regarding the Request for Information (RFI) Regarding Reporting on Pharmacy Benefits and Prescription Drug Costs1. The 58 organizations that signed this correspondence are the voice for many individuals who rely on affordable prescription drugs to treat their health conditions and prevent others, and we appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.
111 HIV & LGBT organizations request funding for national PrEP grant program
The undersigned 111 public health, HIV, hepatitis, and STD community-based organizations, along with providers, community health centers, and advocacy organizations are writing to urge you to support the creation of a national PrEP grant program to prevent HIV in the United States.