Widespread cuts to mental health and substance use programs will be costly

The abrupt termination of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grants supporting mental health and substance use services for people with HIV and hepatitis C in communities across America will have far-reaching health and economic consequences. Eroding our country’s mental health and substance use prevention and treatment infrastructure will lead to a dramatic rise in HIV and hepatitis C transmissions and many more HIV and hepatitis C outbreaks. 

The withdrawal of this funding puts people’s lives at risk and will lead to a dramatic rise in health care costs as more people require HIV and hepatitis C treatment. We call for the immediate reinstatement of all of the SAMHSA grants. 

— Anna K. Person, MD, FIDSA — Chair, HIVMA 

About HIVMA 

The HIV Medicine Association is a community of more than 6,000 health care professionals who advance a comprehensive and humane response to the HIV pandemic, informed by science and social justice. HIVMA works to increase access to health care services and coverage for people with HIV and populations heavily impacted by HIV and to foster a robust, diverse and culturally competent HIV workforce. HIVMA is part of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Visit hivma.org to learn more.