U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) today called for a federal review of the Florida Department of Health’s significant downward revision to its reported HIV cases for 2014. After much public discussion over the noteworthy increase in Florida of HIV infections, FDOH recently reduced the number of reported cases from 6,147 to 4,613.

In her letter to U.S. Health & Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell, U.S. Rep. Castor states:  “Florida may have the largest increase in the rate of new HIV cases. Floridians deserve to know the public health facts. As you are aware, statistical integrity has vital ramifications for resources and actions. The CDC uses the data collected by each state to compile national statistics, important for Florida and for our nation, not to mention grant funding.”

U.S. Rep. Castor also stated:  “A review is particularly important in Florida where the number of public health professionals and county health departments have suffered substantial cuts over the past four years. Florida is in a weaker position to address the threat of the Zika virus or other public health emergencies based upon such cuts, so the HIV/AIDS situation may prove to be a cautionary tale. … Gov. Scott and his relevant agencies often need encouragement to provide adequate and necessary care for its most vulnerable citizens.”‎

As a member of the powerful House Energy & Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, U.S. Rep. Castor is a staunch advocate for the health of Floridians and the necessary resources to protect public health.  She cosponsored the reauthoziation for Ryan White AIDS/HIV Treatment Act and other vital legislation for neighbors and clinics across Florida.

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