Palm Beach County Responds To State Bridge Funding for HIV Medication Program

The Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis have approved temporary bridge funding for Florida's AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), allowing eligible people with HIV to continue accessing life-saving medications without interruption through June 30, 2026.

The measure maintains eligibility for individuals with incomes up to 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level while state leaders consider longer-term funding solutions for the next fiscal year.

However, the legislation does not permanently resolve ADAP funding beyond June 30. Previously announced program changes, 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. Untreated HIV can lead to serious health complications and increase the risk of transmission, making continued access to medication a critical public health 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."

Clients with questions should contact their case manager or call Palm Beach County HIV Elimination Services at 1-833-PBC-HIV1 (1-833-722-4481).

The Control, Halt, Delete Campaign by the Palm Beach County Community Services Department is designed to address HIV in a comprehensive manner:

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 with HIV.
DEL: Delete Stigma - Erasing HIV stigma and disparities in health outcomes.

To learn more about the many programs and services provided by the Community Services Department across Senior & Veteran Services, HIV Elimination Services, Human Services, and Behavioral Health & Substance Abuse Services, please visit www.pbcgov.com/communityservices