Earlier this year the Government announced that it will provide free HIV treatment for all people living with HIV in England, regardless of their residency status.
Some people such as undocumented migrants, people who have stayed in the country after their visa has expired and people who have had their asylum claim refused, have previously had to pay for HIV treatment in the English NHS. Governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have never charged for the same treatment
From 1 October 2012, HIV treatment will be free to anyone living in the UK. Providing free treatment to everyone makes sense in order to protect public health and human rights and we have campaigned with other HIV organisations for many years to secure this change in Government policy.
This change will mean that vulnerable people who may be discouraged from accessing HIV care because of large bills will, from 1 October, be able to get the medication they need. Without access to treatment people who are living with HIV will become seriously ill and need access to emergency care. This is extremely harmful for individuals and costs the NHS more in the long run as they have to provide access to A&E and intensive care if people become very ill.
The introduction of free HIV treatment across the UK will also better protect public health by reducing the risk of the virus being passed on. All treatment for other sexually transmitted infections is free on the grounds that it guards against the spread of infection.
Some people may still be charged for HIV treatment up until October 2012. If you are concerned that you may be charged or simply want to learn more, read our Will I have to Pay guide, produced with NAT. Find out more or call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.
Debt and immigration
Current immigration rules mean that migrants who have an unpaid NHS debt of £1,000 may be prevented from re-entering or applying to stay long-term in the UK. If you have a debt that you are concerned about or are worried that you might incur one between now and October 2012, contact THT Direct on 0808 802 1221 to speak to one of our advisers.
It is really important that you speak to your hospital if you are worried that you won’t be able to pay. Some hospitals may consider writing off your debt, or may arrange for you to pay it back in small amounts of a few pounds per week. This may prevent your immigration application from being affected. Our briefing above, 'Will I have to Pay' explains this in more detail.
Our Policy Team are working on ways to raise awareness of the damage done by charging and HIV treatment debt. If you would like to support our campaigns, please become a member and we will send you regular updates on our work.