Living with HIV in the Philippines: Email 697

Hello,

I have a friend whose son was recently diagnosed as HIV positive. He's son is only 20 years old. These family are dirt poor. They don't even have money for food, rent and electricity. They were told that they will need at least 10,000 pesos for all the necessary vaccines such as flu, hepatitis b, c, pneumococeal anti pneumonia, anti hepa, x ray and lab fees.

Is yours or any organization or clinic that would do this for free? And having HIV is an on going treatment that these people cannot afford. Please advise on where they can get help. They live in Cavite. Any help would be greatly appreciated. They don't have access to the internet, thus, I am writing on their behalf.

Sincerely,
L

POZZIEPINOY’S RESPONSE

Hi L.

Thank you for your email.

Let me answer your concerns in the order that you asked them.

1. Our group, The Red Ribbon is not a foundation and we don't give free vaccinations for PLHIv's. You can try calling PAFPI, a foundation that helps out PLHIV's.

2. If the vaccinations that you mentioned are prescribed by the doctor, usually, they are free or even cheap in government hospitals. In the HIV/AIDS treatment hubs, they are also free, however their supply don't last long so better to call ahead of time before going there.

3. For the laboratory tests (baseline tests) for PLHIV's, RITM-ARG offers them for free. However, if the PLHIV has already opportunistic infections and require additional laboratory, usually, the hubs refer them to the social worker for assistance.

4. Consultation and Treatment for HIV is free. However, like what I said, if there are opportunistic infections that go with HIV, treatment is not covered anymore by the hubs. Once again, the PLHIV will need to talk to the social worker of the hospital for assistance.

I hope I was able to answer your concerns. Feel free to email me again if you have other questions.

Stay healthy,

Pozziepinoy