How to Get HIV Care

Health care is funded and delivered through a range of public and private sources. Public resources cover the cost of most HIV/AIDS care because many people living withe HIV disease have low incomes and lack private health insurance. Eligibility for public programs varies and is largely tied to income levels and health status.

HIV/AIDS services include medical care and support service, such as case management. The largest payers of HIV/AIDS care are three Federal Government programs: Medicaid, Medicare, and the Ryan White Program. These programs provide funding that supports the delivery of services by state and local agencies across the country. A summary of potential sources of support for HIV/AIDS care includes:

Medicaid

Medicaid supports health care for low income individuals who meet eligibility requirements. Medicaid provides financial assistance for outpatient and inpatient care, as well as prescription drugs. It is a state-administered program, and each state sets its own guidelines as to eligibility and services.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that supports medical care for those who qualify based on work history, age, and disability status. Medicare coverage for eligible individuals includes outpatient care, prescription drugs, and inpatient hospital care.

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program funds outpatient primary care, HIV/AIDS drugs, and supportive services for low income persons. It pays for care only when other public or private sources are not available. Visit the TARGET Center Community page for Ryan White Part B state program contact information to learn more.

HIV/AIDS Medications

Support for HIV/AIDS drug treatments can come through private insurance, pharmaceutical assistance programs, and an array of public programs. Potential sources of assistance include the Ryan White AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), Medicare Part D, patient assistance programs, and clinical trials.

Other Federal Health Programs

The Federal Government funds other health programs that include support for people living with HIV/AIDS, such as community health centers, substance abuse agencies, mental health agencies, and HIV/AIDS housing agencies.

Other State and Local Government Programs

Other state and local programs provide HIV/AIDS services for those who lack resources. Contact the Ryan White Part B program for your state for more information regarding available services.

Private Health Insurance - Group and Individual Plans

In most cases, people receive health insurance as an employer-based benefit. Some people buy individual policies, which tend to be more expensive and require an application. State and federal rules regulate private insurance, such as keeping your insurance in the event of job loss. View private insurance information by state.