Avac Event

Improving Access to Innovative HIV Technology

Two things need to happen to achieve greater success in the global fight against HIV: dramatically reduce new infections and achieve viral suppression in those already living with the virus. In order to meet these goals, new infections must come down from an annual rate of 1.7-2 million that has been stagnant for a decade, viral suppression must be sustained and ensured for the more than 23 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) on anti-retroviral treatment (ART), and treatment must be provided to the more than 14 million PLHIV not on ART.

New technology offers the potential to facilitate these efforts if they can be utilized effectively. The July 2019 International AIDS Society science conference in Mexico City highlighted several important technological innovations either already on the market or that will be available in the coming years including long-acting injectable treatment, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), implants, and broadly neutralizing antibodies as a vaccine. However, the ongoing experience of starting oral PrEP programs has demonstrated that taking new products to scale for impact is complex and that there are significant obstacles to ensuring access to those in need.

On Tuesday, October 22nd, 2:30-5:00 pm, the CSIS Global Health Policy Center hosted a public event to explore recent developments in HIV prevention and treatment technology, examine successes and challenges in integrating those products into existing service delivery, and discuss how global programs, such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund, need to adapt to ensure access and uptake.

Fireside Chat

Moderated by:
J. Stephen Morrison – Senior Vice President and Director, CSIS Global Health Policy Center

Panel Discussion

  • Ambassador Deborah L. Birx – Coordinator of the United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS and U.S. Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy, PEPFAR
  • Charles Lyons – President and CEO, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation
  • Mitchell Warren – Executive Director, AVAC

Moderated by:
Sara M. Allinder – Executive Director and Senior Fellow, CSIS Global Health Policy Center

Watch a recording of the event here.