Singapore (VNA) – The Singapore’s Ministry of Health has added 16 antiretroviral drugs used for the treatment of HIV to its list of subsidised drugs since September 1.

According to the ministry, all subsidised patients who purchase any of these 16 drugs will receive 50 percent or 75 percent worth of subsidies, depending on patient's means-test status.

Previously, those living with HIV could receive help from the Medication Assistance Fund on a case-by-case basis.

The ministry affirmed that it regularly reviews the subsidised standard and non-standard drugs to ensure that they remain relevant to changes in local population needs, medical practice and evidence on clinical and cost effectiveness.

It reported that a total number of 8,618 Singapore residents had been infected with HIV as of end-2019, of whom 2,097 had died./.

VNA