Feds Release More than $1.8 Billion in Funds to Combat HIV

On Monday, the Department of Health and Human Services announced $1.89 billion in federal funding for HIV/AIDS services.

Approximately $813 million of $1.213 billion in Part B funding of the Ryan White Program is designated for state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs, which provide life-saving medicines to low-income HIV patients. A supplement of $8.4 million will help 36 states and territories address specific needs, including projected ADAP shortfalls and core medical care.

In addition, $40 million in ADAP Emergency Relief Funding will go toward eliminating or reducing waiting lists, preventing the need for such lists, and/or supporting cost-containment strategies in 30 states. According to the ADAP Advocacy Association, 8,785 patients were on ADAP waiting lists in 10 states as of Sept. 22.

A total of $645 million in Part A Ryan White money will go to 52 cities to provide core medical and support services, including $49.6 million for the Minority AIDS Initiative to improve access to care in disproportionately affected communities.

For more information, visit http://www.hrsa.gov/about/news/pressreleases/110926hivaids.html.

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.

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