Over 80 Organizations Call Out Gilead for Price Hikes on HIV Drugs

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has sent a letter signed by over 80 organizations to Gilead Sciences, sharply criticizing the company’s decision to implement price increases for several of its HIV medications. This move, announced on October 20, 2025, threatens to undermine the vital support provided by AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs), which serve low-income patients reliant on these life-saving therapies.

The planned price hikes, described as high-single digit increases, will likely restrict access to medications for many individuals who rely on ADAPs for their prescriptions. As a result, patients facing financial hardships may find themselves unable to afford critical treatments, further exacerbating existing health disparities within the community.

Gilead’s latest pricing strategy is part of a broader trend under the leadership of CEO Daniel O’Day. Critics argue that the company’s consistent pattern of price increases undermines efforts to ensure equitable healthcare access for all, particularly among vulnerable populations. The implications of these hikes are severe, as they directly impact the availability of medications that are essential for managing HIV.

In their letter, the AHF and its supporting organizations emphasize the importance of making HIV treatments affordable and accessible. They argue that the burden of increased costs should not fall on patients who are already struggling to manage their health and finances.

The response from advocacy groups highlights the urgent need for a reevaluation of pricing strategies in the pharmaceutical industry. Stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and accountability from companies like Gilead, urging them to prioritize patient welfare over profit margins.

As Gilead continues to navigate these criticisms, the broader implications of their pricing decisions will likely resonate beyond the immediate circle of affected patients. The ongoing debate surrounding drug pricing and access to healthcare is poised to evolve, as organizations rally to protect the interests of those most in need.

In conclusion, the letter from the AHF and its coalition underscores a significant moment in the ongoing fight for affordable healthcare. The actions taken by Gilead may not only affect individual patients but also set a precedent for how pharmaceutical companies address the pricing of essential medications moving forward.