Florida To Begin Offering PrEP For Free

In the next step in minimizing the HIV crisis, Florida health official have decided to start offering PrEP free of charge.

Participants seeking treatment will be evaluated by the Florida Department of Health for eligibility, which will take into account their financial income. Just last year, pilot programs for the medication launched in 16 different countries and it's been revealed that the programs will be extended statewide before the end of the year. The development comes after word that Florida's rate of new HIV diagnoses has more than double the national average. Unfortunately, Miami has the highest rate of new diagnosis in the United States. More than 4,800 were diagnosed in just 2015.

"Ensuring PrEP to those at highest risk for HIV infection, regardless of their ability to pay, is one of the four key components of the agency’s plan to eliminate HIV transmission and reduce HIV-related deaths," Florida Department of Health spokesperson Mara Gambineri said. Free access to PrEP will be available by additional screenings and testing of vulnerable populations.

Photo: Getty Images


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