Planned Parenthood: Full Implementation of Affordable Care Act Critical In Fighting Global HIV/AIDS Epidemic

December 1 is World AIDS Day and Planned Parenthood highlights the fact that millions of people can no longer be denied health insurance because HIV is a "pre-existing condition."

More than 1.1 million Americans living with HIV/AIDS – including more than 12,500 people in Connecticut and Rhode Island – are now eligible for health insurance coverage under the new health care law, the Affordable Care Act.

As the region’s leading women’s health care provider and advocate, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England (PPSNE) is committed to reducing the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic by providing nonjudgmental, comprehensive, high-quality reproductive health care to all women, men and young people; and fully implementing the Affordable Care Act.

"No matter who you are, where you live, or your sexual orientation, PPSNE is here for you and continues to fight for a future that is healthy and AIDS-free," said Jenny Carrillo, Senior Vice President, External Affairs & Strategic Planning of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. "On World AIDS Day, we join partners in the region, United States and around the world ensuring women, men and young people, even those in hard to reach communities, receive the information and health care they need to lead healthy and productive lives."

In Connecticut and Rhode Island, PPSNE health centers provided over 16,600 rapid HIV tests and provided information and education to more than 10,000 people. Planned Parenthood of Southern New England helps patients who need additional care connect with trusted, quality resources and follows up with them to ensure they are cared for with the attention they need and deserve.

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