The organization states it will “closely monitor” this case and stresses that most insurance providers must continue to cover PrEP and most other preventative care services.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit today issued its ruling in Braidwood v. Becerra, a challenge to the Affordable Care Act’s coverage mandate. Lambda Legal HIV Project Director Jose Abrigo issued the following statement:
“Lambda Legal is relieved after the recent narrow decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in the case of Braidwood v. Becerra that ruled most of the nation’s insurance providers must continue to cover PrEP medication and other preventative services.
“Because the ruling is limited to the plaintiffs in the Braidwood case, the broader protections and healthcare policies at the national level providing access to preventative care remain intact. However, the narrow scope of this ruling does not diminish our concerns about the threat posed to access by this case and the potential for future challenges that could threaten the healthcare rights and protections for millions of Americans.
“Preventative care is a cornerstone of a healthy society, ensuring that individuals can lead long, fulfilling lives while reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) stands out as a critical component of preventative care, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. By taking PrEP, individuals at high risk for HIV can significantly lower their chances of contracting the virus, thereby contributing to broader public health goals. In order to eradicate the HIV epidemic, it is essential that we continue to promote and provide access to PrEP, along with other preventative measures, to create a future where preventable diseases are minimized and everyone has the opportunity to maintain optimal health.
“Lambda Legal will closely monitor any further developments related to this case and similar legal challenges.”