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Damien Center says expanding the eligibility criteria to include patients with higher incomes will break down financial barriers that prevent individuals from seeking care.
Provided by Damien CenterMore Indianapolis residents living with HIV will have access to care. Damien Center expanded financial assistance eligibility requirements for patients earning less than $72,900 a year, or those at 500 percent of the federal poverty level.
Previously individuals were required to earn less than $40,770 to receive financial assistance, which is 300 percent of the federal poverty level.
The expanded assistance enables people to access services like medical care, co-pay assistance, and mental health services at Damien Center. Individuals can also receive case management services, pharmacy discounts and food assistance.
In a news release, Damien Center says expanding the eligibility criteria to include patients with higher incomes will break down financial barriers that prevent individuals from seeking care.
“Damien Center is dedicated to offering quality, patient-centered, and comprehensive HIV care to individuals across the financial spectrum,” Damien Center President and CEO Aan Witchey said in a news release. “As the cost of living continues to climb, these expanded eligibility requirements will allow us to lessen the financial burden and allow more individuals in the community who need HIV services to focus on their health and well-being.”
An internal Damien Center review revealed the non-profit has the authority to adjust the criteria for patient eligibility within the framework of its Ryan White Part C funding, a federal program that provides resources to community-based healthcare organizations for the treatment of individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
For more information, visit www.damien.org/access or call 317-632-0123.
Contact WFYI health reporter Darian Benson at dbenson@wfyi.org.
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