Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program

The Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP) is a crucial initiative dedicated to saving lives, preventing HIV infections, and expediting progress toward controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic globally. This program is part of the broader PEPFAR initiative and focuses specifically on developing interventions and programs within military health systems to address these issues.

The DHAPP collaborates with the military organizations of foreign countries to tailor plans addressing their unique needs. This involves meeting with crucial partners to determine primary program areas, analyzing the country's HIV/AIDS situation to provide tailored support, and strengthening the military's ability to manage behavioral changes for long-term progress. The program also emphasizes prevention, care, treatment, and fostering collaborative efforts with other successful country partners, following national implementation plans.

To ensure the program's success, strong evidence-based HIV programs are necessary, demonstrating certain attributes. This includes military sector support, policies aligning with epidemic control, and expansion of testing and treatment to meet 2020 and 2030 goals. These targets aim to identify, link to treatment, and achieve viral suppression in 90-95% of HIV-positive individuals within the population.

DHAPP’s approach includes using comprehensive care and treatment plans, reducing mother-to-child transmission, promoting preventative measures, and addressing stigma associated with HIV infection. Other key components involve program monitoring, strengthening HIV data collection systems, and improving clinical decision making and program management.

To foster sustainability, DHAPP is dedicated to capacity building within the military partner sphere. Additionally, local partners – including local institutions, governments, and community organizations - are encouraged to apply to this program. The ultimate goal is a smooth transition to these local partners which can boost the delivery of direct HIV services, as well as ensure long-term engagement and impact.

This announcement will be updated to include country-specific narratives (Attachment 1 of the announcement), which offer vital information for applicants. Interested parties can subscribe to be notified of future revisions.