Losing Ground: How Funding Cuts Hit HIV Patients Hard

The Department of Government Efficiency task force recently announced a massive cut of $109 million in federal grants to UCLA. This decision has far-reaching consequences, especially for HIV research and patient care. One of the most affected areas is a study that had enrolled over 200 HIV-positive individuals, which was abruptly halted. This abrupt stop has left many participants feeling anxious and uncertain about their future health care. Daniel Garza, a 54-year-old from Laguna Beach, is one of those affected. He was diagnosed with HIV in 2000 while struggling with addiction. Nine years ago, he joined the UCLA mStudy, which focuses on identifying and overcoming obstacles that HIV patients face to stay on their medications. The study provided him with regular lab work and support, which he found invaluable. "We're going to get our lab work and they're going to catch anything that's going on with us, like they did in my case, that's a benefit and that's a win across the board, " Garza shared. The sudden loss of this support has left him feeling vulnerable and stressed. George Todd McLachlan, a 27-year-old from Los Angeles, also participated in the study. In 2019, he was shocked to learn he had HIV. With the help of UCLA researchers, he learned to manage his condition and live a healthy life. "Keeping people with HIV, living in care means they don't have viral load and that means they're not able to transmit HIV, " explained UCLA Professor of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases Dr. Pamina Gorbach. She was in the process of starting a new trial based on the success of the mStudy when the funding was cut. The termination letter implied her work was "unscientific" and had a "low return on investment. " This decision has left participants like McLachlan and Garza worried about how they will fill the gap in their care. The funding cuts have not only affected the participants but also the researchers. Dr. Gorbach had to stop her research operations and plans to appeal the government's decision. The Department of Government Efficiency task force claims that UCLA lost the most funding compared to other universities. This situation raises questions about the priorities of the government and the impact of such decisions on public health. HIV patients rely on these studies for more than just medical care. They find support, community, and a sense of belonging. The sudden loss of this support can be devastating. It's crucial to consider the human impact of such decisions and ensure that those living with HIV continue to receive the care and support they need.