By Jovani Davis
(Source: CNW)
Palm Beach County officials say temporary funding approved by the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis will allow eligible residents living with HIV to continue accessing life-saving medications through June 30, 2026, but concerns remain about long-term program stability.
The state approved bridge funding for Florida’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), maintaining eligibility for individuals with incomes up to 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level while lawmakers consider permanent funding solutions for the next fiscal year.
However, county officials noted that the legislation does not resolve funding beyond the June 30 deadline. Previously announced changes to the program — including the end of health insurance premium assistance and formulary coverage for Biktarvy, a widely used HIV medication — remain in place.
Approximately 1,449 Palm Beach County residents living with HIV are still expected to be affected by these changes, according to local health officials. Public health leaders warn that untreated HIV can lead to serious health complications and increase the risk of transmission, making continued access to medication a critical priority.
“This bridge funding provides short-term stability for people with HIV who rely on ADAP to access medication,” said Dr. Casey Messer, Director of Palm Beach County HIV Elimination Services. “Because HIV is a lifelong diagnosis, Palm Beach County remains focused on protecting long-term continuity of care in a way that is sustainable for our residents.”
County officials emphasized that while the temporary funding prevents immediate disruptions, the need for long-term funding remains urgent. Health advocates say continuity of treatment is essential not only for individuals living with HIV but also for broader public health efforts aimed at reducing transmission rates.
Residents with questions about eligibility or program changes are encouraged to contact their case manager or call Palm Beach County HIV Elimination Services at 1-833-PBC-HIV1 (1-833-722-4481).
The funding update comes as Palm Beach County continues its broader HIV prevention and treatment initiative through the Control, Halt, Delete Campaign, led by the Palm Beach County Community Services Department.
The campaign focuses on three key areas:
CTRL: Control Risks — Empowering individuals to take charge of their health by reducing risks of HIV
HALT: Halt the Spread — Stopping the spread of HIV through care and treatment for persons living with HIV
DEL: Delete Stigma — Addressing HIV stigma and disparities in health outcomes
County officials say the initiative is designed to provide a comprehensive response to HIV by improving access to care, encouraging testing and treatment, and reducing stigma within communities.
While the temporary funding offers short-term relief, Palm Beach County leaders say they will continue monitoring state decisions and advocating for sustainable, long-term solutions to ensure residents living with HIV maintain uninterrupted access to care.
