In recent years, Wisconsin has been showing commendable success in containing its HIV epidemic, with new diagnoses consistently kept at around 300 annually. However, a recent drastic cut in federal funding for HIV prevention and treatment has raised concerns about the potential for an increase in these numbers. Brandon Hill, President and CEO of Milwaukee-based Vivent Health, warns of the dire consequences if the funding cuts continue.
The Power of Prevention: PrEP
A significant breakthrough in HIV prevention has been the use of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2012. Hill notes the increase in PrEP’s use as a vital factor in keeping HIV cases low within the state. “PrEP for HIV prevention is over 90 percent effective when the treatment regimen is followed,” Hill states. Despite this, accessibility remains a challenge for certain high-risk groups due to stigma and lack of information. According to WPR, funding cuts pose additional barriers to these preventive measures.
The Ripple Effect of Federal Funding Cuts
Earlier this year, the federal government considered dismantling the CDC’s Division of HIV Prevention. While it remains, funds have been drastically reduced, disrupting ongoing research and prevention programs. Hill laments this move, highlighting its impact on the workforce and the uncertainty it brings. Fortunately, Vivent Health has managed to sustain its services without making direct cuts, but not all organizations have been as lucky.
Navigating an Uncertain Future
Hill emphasizes the importance of diverse revenue streams for organizational stability. Vivent Health, for instance, relies not only on government grants but also on commercial insurance and philanthropy. This model has allowed them to offset funding losses, but similar organizations lacking such diversity may struggle to stay afloat.
Bridging the Gaps
Despite the challenges, Hill remains optimistic about sharing global best practices through his new role as President of the International Academy of Sex Research. This knowledge exchange is crucial for adapting successful HIV prevention strategies from around the world to Wisconsin and the broader United States.
With significant budget reductions looming as part of what Hill refers to as the “Big, Beautiful Bill,” the path forward is fraught with uncertainty. As federal funding continues to decline, organizations like Vivent Health brace for further challenges in their mission to contain and eventually end the HIV epidemic.
Looking Ahead: Funding and Policy Implications
The situation for those relying on Medicaid, especially among the 40 percent of people living with HIV, appears grim. The ongoing budget cuts urge a reevaluation of funding priorities and the economic structures supporting health services. Moving forward, finding new ways to secure and efficiently utilize resources will be critical to prevent further setbacks in both treatment and prevention efforts.
