Vienna (OTS) – The introduction of free HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to protect against HIV infection is a health policy milestone, said Barbara Huemer, health spokesperson for the Vienna Green Party, and Emir Dizdarević, spokesperson for the Andersrum Green Party in Vienna, pleased with the National Council’s decision last week. “With free PrEP, health protection is no longer a question of individual income and people save several hundred euros per year,” emphasizes Huemer.
From April 1st, the costs of medication for social insurance members will be reimbursed by the umbrella organization of social insurance companies. PrEP is recommended for people with an increased risk of HIV infection or for partners of HIV-positive people.
However, it is not yet possible to reimburse the costs for PrEP via the Krankensorgeanstalt – KFA Wien (social insurance for Vienna municipal employees). Over 130,000 people are insured through KFA Vienna. “Rainbow flags will be raised at Vienna City Hall in June to show solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. But this solidarity apparently ends with the health of the city of Vienna employees: their insured people are currently not getting PrEP reimbursed, that has to change,” says Dizdarević.
Huemer calls for the rapid introduction of free PrEP for KFA Vienna insured people: “Vienna has additional tax resources available from the federal government for HIV prophylaxis as a result of the financial equalization for this measure. City Councilor for Health Hacker just has to collect these funds from the so-called prevention pot.” The Greens submitted a corresponding proposal at the last local council meeting. However, it was rejected by the red-pink city government.
Huemer and Dizdarević conclude by emphasizing: “The health of the insured must not become a victim of political games. It’s far too precious for that. We want free PrEP for everyone in Vienna and not just for those who can afford it!”
Questions & Contact:
Communication Green Vienna
(+43-1) 4000 – 81814
presse.wien@gruene.at
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