If you’re living with HIV, getting treatment is crucial—but costs can be overwhelming. Angelo Trinidad, a Senior Enrollment Coordinator at GMHC (an organization that helps people with HIV access care), explains how to get treatment even if you don’t have insurance.
Here’s what you need to know about costs, financial help, and where to find support.
1. How Much Does HIV Treatment Cost Without Insurance?
Without insurance, HIV treatment can be expensive. Here’s a breakdown:
- Medication:
- Biktarvy (a common HIV drug) costs $3,981 per month without insurance.
- Doctor Visits:
- Around $350 per visit.
- Lab Work:
- Between 150–200 per test.
- You may need tests every month to every 6 months, depending on your treatment stage.
Good news: There are ways to lower these costs—keep reading!
2. How Much Does HIV Treatment Cost With Insurance?
If you have insurance (through work or a government marketplace), costs are much lower:
- Doctor Visits:
- Copay is usually around $20 per visit (if the doctor is in-network).
- Medication:
- HIV drugs (like Biktarvy) are usually $40 per month with insurance.
- Lab Work:
- Costs less than without insurance (varies by plan).
3. Government Programs That Help Pay for HIV Treatment
If you can’t afford treatment, these programs can help:
A. AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
- What it does: Provides free or low-cost HIV meds for people with no insurance or limited income.
- Who qualifies:
- Income limits vary by state, but you can be working and still qualify.
- Immigration status doesn’t matter—undocumented people can apply.
- How to apply:
- Every state has its own ADAP—contact them directly (they can often approve you the same day!).
B. Medicaid
- Covers 40% of young adults with HIV.
- For low-income individuals and families.
- Apply through your state’s Medicaid office.
C. Local Programs (Example: NYC’s HASA)
- Some cities have extra help (like rent assistance for unemployed people with HIV).
- Ask your local HIV clinic or ADAP about regional programs.
4. Drug Manufacturer Discounts
If you don’t qualify for government help, drug companies offer discount programs.
- Example: Gilead (maker of Biktarvy) has a financial assistance program.
- You fill out an application, and if approved, you get a voucher to lower costs.
- Visit the Biktarvy website or ask your doctor for details.
5. How Do I Know If I Qualify for Help?
It depends on:
✔ Your income
✔ Whether you have insurance
✔ Where you live
The best way to find out? Talk to a health navigator (like Angelo at GMHC). They can:
- Check your eligibility for ADAP, Medicaid, or drug discounts.
- Help you apply quickly.
6. Who Can Help Me Figure This Out?
Don’t struggle alone! Reach out to:
- Your state’s ADAP office (even if you think you earn too much).
- A local HIV clinic or nonprofit (like GMHC).
- A social worker or health navigator.
They’ll guide you to the best options for your situation.
Final Thoughts
✅ HIV treatment is available to everyone—no matter your income or insurance status.
✅ Government programs (ADAP, Medicaid) and drug discounts can make meds affordable.
✅ You don’t have to figure it out alone—help is just a phone call away!
Need assistance? Contact your local ADAP office or HIV clinic today!