Florida Department of Health cuts funding for HIV and AIDS drug program

Emergency rules issued by the Florida Department of Health reduce ADAP eligibility from 400% to 130% of the federal poverty level and restrict coverage of the HIV drug Biktarvy; advocates say about 16,000 Floridians could be affected.

The Florida Department of Health issued emergency rules that change who can receive state subsidies through the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). The rules lower the income threshold for aid and narrow insurance coverage for a commonly used HIV medication. State officials have cited funding issues, and advocates and lawmakers have voiced objections. A hearing involving the department and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation was planned around the time the rules were announced. Key details: - The emergency rules lower ADAP eligibility to people at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, down from 400%. - The rules also limit insurance coverage for Biktarvy, a medication reported to be used by about 60% of the roughly 30,000 people enrolled in ADAP. - Advocates estimate about 16,000 Floridians could be affected by the change. - The Department of Health described the change as related to funding; the rules take effect Sunday, last 90 days, and can be renewed, and a hearing with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation was planned. Summary: The emergency rules reduce the pool of people eligible for state ADAP subsidies and narrow coverage for a widely used HIV drug, which advocates say affects thousands of Floridians. A lawsuit from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation is pending and a hearing was scheduled; the emergency rules are temporary for 90 days and can be renewed.