Testing positive for HIV can be a scary time. The good news is that HIV can be treated with medication. HIV medicines can’t cure HIV, but they help people with HIV live long, healthy lives. And someone on effective HIV medication cannot pass the virus on to someone else.
The first thing a person should do after testing positive for HIV is to see a healthcare provider who knows how to treat HIV. The doctor will help to figure out which medications a person with HIV should take. These medications will help a person with HIV stay healthy.
There are many organizations in Southwestern PA that can help with other services for a person living with HIV, such as food, housing, transportation, spiritual guidance, and support groups. These services are supported by a program called Ryan White Part B and managed by the Jewish Healthcare Foundation.
You can email AIDS Free Pittsburgh or text 412-773-1120.
Health Insurance
Looking for health insurance? Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for medical assistance (also known as Medicaid) through the Pennsylvania HealthChoices program. You can apply for or renew your Medical Assistance online by using COMPASS.
Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program (SPBP)
If you are living with HIV/AIDS, you may be eligible for pharmaceutical assistance and lab services. Applicants must be a resident of Pennsylvania and have a gross annual income of less than or equal to 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to qualify for the program. You can fill out the application here. For assistance or additional information, please call the SPBP Customer Service Line at 1-800-922-9384.
Did you know?
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to cover people with pre-existing conditions such as HIV. This means that you cannot be dropped from your policy or denied coverage because of your HIV diagnosis. Learn more here.
