In This Issue

What are the implications for HIV vaccine research overall, given the HVTN 505 vaccine trial failure? We ask internationally known vaccine researcher Dr. Wayne C. Koff, senior vice president and chief scientific officer at the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative.

Research shows that HIV-positive men may have higher levels of atherosclerotic plaque in their arteries, which may contribute to their higher rates of heart attack and sudden cardiac death.

Are health coops the wave of the future? Kaiser Health News looks at an option being explored in Oregon under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Our friends at AIDS.gov explore the new role that health departments will play under the ACA and in light of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy and Viral Hepatitis Action Plan.

And in an effort to counter criticism that the new health insurance exchanges will lack competition, the White House announces that 120 companies have applied to offer insurance – far more competition than exists in most states today.

Yours in the struggle,

Leisha McKinley-Beach