The HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute has raised serious allegations against Community Health Choice Texas, a Houston-based health insurance carrier. The advocacy group accuses the insurer of offering substandard HIV drug coverage and discriminating against HIV patients.
Substandard HIV Drug Coverage Claims
The complaint alleges that Community Health Choice Texas fails to cover recommended drugs for HIV treatment. Additionally, the insurer places most HIV drugs on the highest payment tier, burdening patients with increased costs.
Deceptive Coverage Listings
The advocacy group’s complaint, filed with the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, claims deceptive practices by the insurer. Over half of the 100 listed HIV drugs are reportedly not covered, and some included drugs were discontinued or have severe side effects.
Impact on HIV Patients
The insurer’s policy forces patients to take multiple drugs for HIV treatment, a practice considered outdated and discriminatory. This approach contradicts the federal government’s stance and undermines public health efforts like the U=U campaign (undetectable equals untransmittable).
Call for Immediate Government Intervention
HIV+Hep demands urgent government action to ensure Community Health Choice Texas revises its 2024 coverage formularies. Executive Director Carl Schmid emphasizes the need for strict oversight and enforcement to prevent insurers from discriminatory practices.
Public Health Concerns in Houston
Houston is a key community in the federal government’s initiative to end HIV, particularly affecting the Black population. The insurer’s policies potentially jeopardize these efforts by limiting access to effective HIV medications.