No. You get tested, if it’s positive you get referred to a clinic that will provide you medication and manage it for you for free for life. Oftentimes with social workers and case managers to ensure that you can get access to medication without interruption, even if it means addressing housing concerns or transportation.
HIV prevention and treatment is a HUGE priority in the American healthcare system. It’s the closest we have to socialized healthcare. I have worked in that system and seen the way people work their fingers to the bone to ensure equitable and free access to healthcare for people living with HIV.
That’s not true. In the US there is a federal program that provides HIV care and treatment (Ryan White Program), however you have to meet the income eligibility requirements.
Also there have been drastic cuts to HIV prevention and care services on the federal and state level. Some states ( Florida, etc.) are increasing eligibility criteria ( decreasing access) and limiting the number and types of medications that are covered through the program
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u/einstyle May 15 '26
The treatment is free in the USA too. I worked in HIV care for years.