CVS Health are facing backlash for its refusal to cover a new 'revolutionary' HIV drug, calling the move "shameful". Carl Schmid, executive director of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute said in a statement: “The entire world is excited by this drug and its potential contribution to preventing and eventually ending HIV. However, a drug will only work if people can access it and right now CVS Health, which owns the largest pharmacy benefit manager in the country, is shamefully blocking people from taking it, unlike other payers.” The drug, known as Yeztugo (lenacapavir), is a twice-yearly injectable that has been proven to be nearly 100% effective in clinical trials.“We urge CVS, which has been committed to ending HIV in the past, to reconsider their decision immediately,” Schmid said. CVS spokesperson David Whitrap told Reuters that the decision was determined by “clinical, financial, and regulatory factors'". #cvs #cvshealth #yeztugo #HIV #hivaids #lgbtqia