Potentially Life-Saving Treatment for COVID-19 Denied on Basis of Race

Discrimination is at work in Texas’ Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as overseen by Gov. Greg Abbott. The potentially life-saving monoclonal antibody treatment for those affected with COVID-19 has demonstrated effectiveness if received early enough, yet it is being denied to some patients on the basis of race. 

News broke over the weekend that the criteria for receiving the monoclonal antibody treatment excludes those of white or Asian descent who are younger than 65 and reasonably healthy, as determined by their body mass index and health history. 

Harrison Smith tweeted a video of his interaction with the HHS worker determining whether he met the eligibility criteria.  

When Smith asked if he could receive the treatment if he was black or Hispanic, the HHS worker replied, “That’s right.” 

Smith added, “So, I’m being denied medical service because of my race?” 

The HHS worker responded, “That’s the criteria that was set forth.” She went on to add, “You’re healthy and [have] no medical conditions, so research shows you should be able to fight off COVID.”

Dave Reilly called the State Infusion Hotline and asked if monoclonal antibody treatments were being denied to those of Caucasian and Asian descent if they had no underlying health issues.

The HHS worker answered affirmatively. 

Gubernatorial challenger Don Huffines brought attention to the issue, calling it “outrageous that Greg Abbott’s state agencies are actively discriminating against White and Asian Texans—denying them monoclonal antibodies, which is potentially lifesaving treatment.” 

“This is a horrendous example of Critical Race Theory in action and a gross violation of Texas values. Greg Abbott must immediately stop this practice, fire the employees responsible, and apologize to Texans for this repugnant behavior,” Huffines added.

As of publishing, Gov. Abbott’s office did not respond to Texas Scorecard’s request for comment.

You can also check out the latest episode of The Luke Macias Show on the application of racist COVID protocols here:

Sydnie Henry

A born and bred Texan, Sydnie serves as the Managing Editor for Texas Scorecard. She graduated from Patrick Henry College with a B.A. in Government and is utilizing her research and writing skills to spread truth to Texans.