The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is currently evaluating the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of HIV Prevention for potential redundancy with other agencies, although no final decision has been reached regarding its future. Recent reports from the WSJ and NBC, citing anonymous sources, suggested that the division may be dismantled. This division, with a budget of $1.3 billion, is responsible for monitoring HIV infections nationwide, as well as promoting testing and prevention strategies, including the use of HIV prevention medications such as PrEP.
Carl Schmid, the executive director of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute, revealed that a government source informed him about the possible shutdown of the division, with a decision on funding expected imminently. The fate of the division’s funding remains uncertain, with the Department of Health and Human Services indicating that a review of all divisions is part of a broader effort to restructure the federal government under the Trump administration.
While the CDC’s HIV Prevention Division may face changes, HIV prevention services could potentially be relocated to another health agency, leading to concerns about significant cuts to prevention efforts. Advocacy groups like AIDS United have mobilized to pressure decision-makers and emphasize the importance of HIV prevention funding, highlighting the impact on saving lives and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations at risk of HIV infection.
The Trump administration’s evolving approach to HIV/AIDS policy, including recent actions affecting international HIV medication distribution, has sparked activism within the community to protect critical prevention services. Efforts are underway to raise awareness among elected representatives and policymakers about the vital role of HIV prevention programs in safeguarding public health.
