Publix Reverses Course; Covers PrEP
Publix’s Statement to Sam Graper Reversing Course to Cover PrEP
The controversy began a week ago when an Atlanta doctor reported that a patient was denied PrEP. PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis) is a HIV prevention regimen that has been proven to be up to 99% effective at reducing HIV transmission with daily adherence and is recommended by the CDC. After further investigation by the doctor, it was confirmed that the denial was not coming from the insurance company but directly from the employer, Publix. Publix stated that
“In cases where Truvada is being used prophylactically, the plan’s definition of medical necessity was not met.”
Publix’s PrEP denial was controversial because PrEP is recommended by the CDC and Publix covers other preventative treatments recommended by the CDC. The story spread via social media quickly with several national news sources covering the story. The public outcry was enormous and swift putting pressure on Publix to cover PrEP. Representative Carlos Guillermo Smith met with Publix officials to educate and explain the importance of covering CDC recommended prevention options like PrEP but Publix stood by its decision to deny PrEP. Rep Smith posted the outcome of the meeting and it was rapidly shared on social media, putting more pressure on Publix to change its postion. Less than 24 hours after that meeting, Publix reversed course and will expand insurance coverage to include PrEP. Representative Carlos Guillermo Smith stated “Diplomacy LIVES!”
Social media was also quick to respond praising Publix for listening to the community and responding promptly. Equality Florida stated
“Thanks to Publix for responding to the voices from the community and making this critical change in policy.”
More Articles
Dr. DeJesus Recognized by Orlando Magazine
For the 5th consecutive year, Dr. DeJesus has been recognized by his peers in Orlando Magazine for his work as medical director at Orlando Immunology Center. Dr. DeJesus is a graduate from the University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine training and Infectious Disease fellowship at the Medical College of…
Read More
Join OIC at the 2015 AIDS Walk Orlando
Orlando Immunology Center is pleased to announce that we will again be sponsoring a team at this year’s 2015 AIDS Walk Orlando. If you are interested in joining our team or donating to this worthwhile cause, please let us know. Saturday, March 28, 2015 In Florida, 15% of all new HIV infections reported among females…
Read More
OIC Wins Wave Award for Favorite Local Healthcare Professional
The Orlando Immunology Center (OIC) announced today they have received the Central Florida/Orlando 2015 Watermark Awards for Variety and Excellence (WAVE) Award for favorite local healthcare professional. “We see this as a huge honor and will continue to do everything in our power to help patients from all walks of life be healthy, happy and…
Read More
Dr. DeJesus Recognized by Orlando Magazine
For the 5th consecutive year, Dr. DeJesus has been recognized by his peers in Orlando Magazine for his work as medical director at Orlando Immunology Center. Dr. DeJesus is a graduate from the University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine training and Infectious Disease fellowship at the Medical College of…
Read More
Join OIC at the 2015 AIDS Walk Orlando
Orlando Immunology Center is pleased to announce that we will again be sponsoring a team at this year’s 2015 AIDS Walk Orlando. If you are interested in joining our team or donating to this worthwhile cause, please let us know. Saturday, March 28, 2015 In Florida, 15% of all new HIV infections reported among females…
Read More
OIC Wins Wave Award for Favorite Local Healthcare Professional
The Orlando Immunology Center (OIC) announced today they have received the Central Florida/Orlando 2015 Watermark Awards for Variety and Excellence (WAVE) Award for favorite local healthcare professional. “We see this as a huge honor and will continue to do everything in our power to help patients from all walks of life be healthy, happy and…
Read More
Dr. DeJesus Presented the Chuck Hummer, III, Visionary Award
Congratulations to Dr. DeJesus for winning the Chuck Hummer, III, Visionary Award presented at this year’s Headdress Ball benefiting Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, Inc. The award is given annually to individuals in the community who have made a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS. OUR TEAM REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
Read More
8 Ways You Can Protect Your Liver When You’re Living With Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is the leading cause of severe liver disease and liver cancer, both of which can be fatal. So, what are some of the ways you can protect your liver when you’re living with hepatitis C? To keep your liver healthy when living with hepatitis C, the most important thing to do is to…
Read More
Dr. DeJesus Orlando Sentinel Interview About Actor Charlie Sheen
Dr. Edwin DeJesus was recently interviewed by the Orlando Sentinel about well-known actor Charlie Sheen, confirming that he was HIV-positive. To read the full article click here or click the image below. OUR TEAM REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
Read More
Dr. Edwin DeJesus Included on Best Doctors 2015 List by Orlando Magazine
Dr. DeJesus was recently voted “Best Doctors 2015” by Orlando Magazine. The Best Doctors in America® List includes the nation’s most respected specialists and outstanding primary care physicians in the nation. These are the doctors that other doctors recognize as the best doctors in their fields. They cannot pay a fee and are not paid…
Read More
What to Expect On Your First STD Screening
Let’s face it. Going for your first STD screening can be a bit nerve-racking, but knowing your status doesn’t have to be scary! To put your mind at ease we provide tips on when you should get tested and what to expect at your first screening. Should I Get Tested? If you experience any symptoms…
Read More
5 Things You Should Know About PrEP
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and is a preventative option for people who do not have HIV, but are at a high risk of contracting HIV. The word “prophylaxis” means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease. PrEP is a pill that contains two medicines that are also used to…
Read More
CDC Confirms That The Zika Virus Can Be Sexually Transmitted
If you’ve consumed any piece of news in the last week, you may have heard about an outbreak of the Zika virus. Warnings urged pregnant women to avoid travel to areas with a large number of cases due to possible birth defects. It was originally believed that the Zika virus could only be transmitted from…
Read More