Sheer Insanity in Rhode Island

[Guest guest]

I am absolutly astounded that due to budgetary problems, the RI Derpt of Health

is taking meds out of thousands of peoples hands who cant afford them staruing

today. No advanced warning. Nothing. I dont think they realize that they are

taking us right back into the chrisis of the 1980's...how many more millions

will it cost when people start dying in record numebrs becasue they cant afford

their meds. Here is a recap of what they are doing:

Effective tomorrow, Sept 1, 2010, RI Health Dept is implementing a signifiicant

change in access to HIV medications, due to budget problems.

In the past, people living with HIV who had no health insurance could receive

all their HIV meds (and a few others on the state formulary)without cost if

their income fell below 400% of the federal poverty line (<$42,000 for 1

person). That limit is now shrinking to 200% ($21,000). Interestingly, one year

of the popular 3-drugs-in-one pill, Atripla, costs more than $21,000! Also,

people who had insurance but had significant co-pays and who fell within those

income guidelines could have their co-pays covered by the state HIV drug

program. Co-pays may range from a few dollars to >20% of meds that retail at

$500 to $1000 each, with most drug regimens requiring 3-4 drugs. Working people

don't stand a chance.

These changes have implications for people living with HIV who may not qualify

for patient assistance programs, are uninsured or have large co-pays. It also

has an impact on the potential transmission of HIV in the community if people

are not able to keep their viral loads undetectable.

We have made HIV a chronic disease which allows people to live their lives

fully-and now, it's like taking insulin away from insulin-dependent diabetics

and telling them to go on a diet!