The US Air Force has announced changes to its policies regarding the use of an anti-HIV medication, which will reduce the amount of time pilots would be grounded after taking the medication and eliminate the need for waivers for aircrews. The updated policies come as part of the Air Force’s LGBTQ+ Initiative Team’s efforts to address barriers to service. Previously, pilots using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) were grounded for 30 days, but that restriction has now been reduced to 14 days. The change aligns with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is expected to enhance readiness and retention of service members.
PrEP is a preventative medication taken by individuals at an elevated risk of contracting HIV. By reducing the grounding time for pilots taking PrEP, the Air Force hopes to improve the overall readiness of its aircrews. The waiver requirement for aircrew members on PrEP has also been eliminated, meaning pilots who are already taking the medication and flying on a waiver no longer need to renew their waiver.
The decision to revise the policies was based on a review of safety data conducted by the Air Force over the past five years. The team concluded that the waiver for aircrew members on PrEP was unnecessary given the available safety data. The Pentagon currently prohibits individuals who have tested positive and been diagnosed with HIV from joining the military, but allows service members to continue serving if diagnosed afterward.
According to HIV.gov, HIV disproportionately affects men who are gay or bisexual and have sex with other men. PrEP has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of contracting the virus when taken as prescribed. Approximately 22% of active service members and 18% of reserve service members were identified as being at high risk for HIV based on their sexual health behaviors, according to a 2018 Department of Defense survey.
The update in policies is the latest step taken by the military to address HIV. Last year, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin issued a memorandum stating that commanders would no longer be able to involuntarily separate troops with asymptomatic HIV, nor restrict them from deploying. Furthermore, enlisted personnel, cadets, and midshipmen with HIV would not be barred from seeking a commission as an officer.
The new policies aim to strike a balance between ensuring the health and safety of service members while allowing them to continue their military careers. By reducing the grounding time for pilots on PrEP, the Air Force hopes to enhance readiness and retain experienced personnel. The decision to eliminate the waiver requirement is based on a thorough review of safety data and aims to streamline the process for aircrew members on PrEP.
As the Air Force continues to address barriers to service and inclusivity, these policy changes represent a significant step forward in supporting the health and well-being of its members. By aligning with CDC guidelines and taking into account the specific needs of its personnel, the Air Force is working to create a more inclusive and effective force.
