Texas Acts to Facilitate Continued Access to Daily HIV Medication for Texans Living With HIV Affected by Hurricane Harvey
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Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath have disrupted the lives of millions of people, including people living with HIV. The Texas HIV Medication Program (THMP), the state’s Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), has implemented measures to help facilitate continued access to daily HIV medication for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey in the state. The steps support both program participants living with HIV and all the agencies and workers who assist those with HIV in the community. Visit their website for details about services available for:
- People living with HIV currently in the impacted area in eastern Texas
- People living with HIV who have evacuated the impacted area and are still in Texas
- People living with HIV who have evacuated the impacted area and are out of state
The program has announced that local jurisdictions are able to use Emergency Financial Assistance to replace medications that have been lost, damaged, or need to be refilled. Additionally, the Texas State Board of Pharmacies has authorized pharmacies to dispense up to a 30-day supply of medications due to the emergency situation.
The THMP website also provides information on emergency preparedness for all people living with HIV as well as tips on what to do if your HIV medications are running out or have run out due to the emergency circumstances.
Read more about THMP and the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B ADAP.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has also shared information and resources for those affected by Hurricane Harvey on a new web page. Topics addressed include mental and behavioral health, food and water safety, safe use of drugs, and staying safe after the storm, among other topics.