H.R. 7385: PrEP Assistance Program Act

This bill, known as the PrEP Assistance Program Act, aims to establish a program to provide financial support for programs that supply pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection. Key components of the bill are outlined below:

Establishment of Grant Program

The bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), in collaboration with the Health Resources and Services Administration, to create a grant program. This program will:

• Provide grants to eligible entities that will establish or support PrEP programs.
• Prioritize entities serving communities with high HIV rates, particularly those in rural areas and those with high-risk demographics.
• Support innovative service delivery models, such as vending machines or pop-up clinics.

Grant Details

Grants awarded under this program can go up to $10 million per entity. The funding must be used to cover expenses related to running a PrEP program, including but not limited to:

• Clinic and laboratory fees
• Office visits (including telehealth)
• PrEP medication
• Required blood and urine testing
• Sexually transmitted disease testing
• Counseling and adherence services
• Outreach for both health professionals and patients
• Transportation support
• Mental health services

No Cost for Services

Individuals receiving services from a program funded under this bill will not be required to pay for those services.

Matching Contributions

Grantees will need to contribute at least 10% of the grant amount toward the program, although there are provisions for waivers for certain organizations, like community-based or rural health clinics.

Accountability and Reports

The Secretary of HHS will provide annual reports to Congress for the first five years after the bill’s implementation, detailing the program's impact, with data on demographics and service accessibility. The reporting will aim to assess reductions in healthcare disparities.

Authorization of Funds

To implement the programs, the bill authorizes $400 million for each fiscal year from 2027 through 2031.

Definitions of Key Terms

The bill defines several terms, ensuring clarity on what constitutes an eligible entity (such as state and local governments, clinics, and community organizations) and what services and medications are covered under the PrEP programs.

Program for Uninsured Individuals

The act also mandates the creation of a program that allows health care providers to submit claims for HIV prevention services delivered to uninsured individuals. This program would facilitate access to PrEP and related services for those who cannot afford them.

Payment and Provider Regulations

HHS will establish how much providers will be reimbursed for these services, which will be assessed and adjusted periodically. Providers must agree not to charge uninsured individuals for the services covered by the program.

Relevant Companies

• GILD (Gilead Sciences, Inc.): A leading developer of HIV medications, including PrEP drugs. Changes in funding and access to these medications through the proposed programs could directly affect the company’s market and sales.
• JNJ (Johnson & Johnson): A major pharmaceutical company involved in HIV treatment and prevention. The bill may influence its distribution strategies and market outreach efforts for existing and new HIV prevention products.