I am writing to express my concern about the proposed $5.3 million cuts to HIV services in the city’s budget, specifically the Undecectables program. These cuts, as outlined by Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, target vital programs that have been instrumental in reducing viral loads among hard-to-reach patients. (Gothamist 5/14/24)
Undetectables, which appears to be on the chopping block has had significant, measurable success in increasing the percentage of patients with virally suppressed HIV from 39% to 62% over two years ( 2019 University of Pennsylvania study). The program not only links patients with primary care providers and case managers but also offers several essential support services like childcare, mental health assistance, and transportation.
NYC has reduced new infections to fewer than 2,000 annually and achieved a viral suppression rate of 88% among those diagnosed. But, progress has plateaued, and cutting funding to effective programs like the Undetectables could reverse these achievements.
We must continue to our most vulnerable populations. Please reconsider these cuts to HIV services to ensure continued support for those in need.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
