Early Experience Implementing Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir/Rilpivirine for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Treatment at a Ryan White-Funded Clinic in the US South

Abstract

Implementing LAI-ART at a Southern US Ryan White-funded clinic has been challenged by the following: substantial human resource capital to attain drug, administer injections, and support enrolled patients; delayed therapy initiation due to insurance denials; patient ineligibility primarily due to possible RPV resistance; and inability to provide drug regardless of payor source. These barriers may perpetuate disparities in ART access and outcomes among PWH and should be urgently addressed so that LAI-ART can be offered equitably.