Publix has announced via Twitter that they are in the process of reversing course on PrEP: "Publix appreciates the concerns shared by our associates and customers. We offer generous health coverage to our eligible full-time and part-time associates at an affordable premium and are committed to the health and well-being of our associates and their families. We regularly evaluate what is covered by our health plan and have made the decision to expand our health plan's coverage of Truvada to include Pre-exposure Prophylaxis ( PrEP ). We are working with our pharmacy benefits manager to implement this change as quickly as possible."
From an HRC press release:
The Human Rights Campaign issued the following reaction to Publix's decision to add coverage for PrEP for employees:
"It is a positive step forward that an employer as large as Publix will now offer PrEP to its employees as part of their health care coverage. Publix has locations predominantly in the South, where HIV disproportionately affects the population, making this decision all the more impactful and necessary. We hope this decision by Publix will inspire other large employers to think seriously about ensuring that their health plans address all employees' needs." — Mary Beth Maxwell, Senior Vice President for Programs, Research and Training at the Human Rights Campaign
HRC spoke out earlier this year about Publix's decision to not offer PrEP for its employees, and after pressure from HRC, other advocates and elected officials such as Florida State Rep. Carlos Smith, Publix has now reversed its decision.
About PrEP
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a once-daily pill regimen that can help you stay HIV-negative. The only drug that is FDA-approved for PrEP is a prescription medication sold under the brand name Truvada®.
When taken as prescribed, PrEP has been shown to be more than 90 percent effective against contracting HIV. PrEP is much less effective if it is not taken daily.
More information here: www.hrc.org/resources/is-prep-right-for-me