MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday said getting anti-retroviral therapy (ART) was free for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV), even for minors, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
The DOH previously reported that 30 percent of HIV cases in the country fell under 15 to 25 years old.
In a radio interview, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said that minors who were afraid to disclose their HIV status to their parents may access treatment through "proxy consent."
Proxy consent can be provided by social workers from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) or healthcare providers to a minor when needed.
Under the law, minors typically require parental consent to receive medical treatment, including ART. However, the DOH noted that many young individuals hesitated to disclose their HIV status to their parents due to fear of stigma or rejection.
“There might be teenagers listening; they might be afraid to go for a screening. You can go to the treatment hub and ask for consent from the social worker or the doctor,” Herbosa said, urging teenagers living with HIV to seek help.
