Romania reallocates HIV/AIDS program funds to emergency services

Patients receiving treatment through the HIV/AIDS Program in Romania are facing uncertainty regarding medication availability for December. Interim Health Minister Cseke Attila announced that funds are being reallocated to ensure the operation of emergency units (UPU) and county ambulance services.

Specifically, 56 million lei will be moved from the HIV/AIDS Program, the Transfusion Security Program, the Mother and Child Program, and Centralized Actions. This reallocation means these specific programs will lack funding for the month of December. Additionally, 20 million lei will be cut from the National Vaccination Program, and 42 million lei will be relocated from funds intended for resident doctors' salaries.

While the Ministry of Health estimates a total financial requirement of 980 million lei to cover programs through the end of the year, the reallocation has caused significant concern among the approximately 16,000 patients who rely on monthly medication to prevent life-threatening consequences from treatment interruption.

Separately, the National Agency for Payments and Social Inspection (ANPIS) has scheduled social benefit payments for September 21, 2026. These include placement allowances, food allowances for individuals with HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, and the minimum inclusion income.