HHS announces $1.1 billion in HIV/AIDS grants

WASHINGTON HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt this week announced grants to all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. protectorates of more than $1.1 billion to provide primary care, medications and services for low-income and underinsured people living with HIV/AIDS.

The majority of the grants, funded under Part B of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, are used support state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs that provide prescription medications for HIV/AIDS patients.

“These Ryan White HIV/AIDS Part B grants help ensure Americans, especially those in rural and underserved communities, affected by HIV/AIDS get access to the care they need through quality health care and support systems,” Leavitt said. “These grants strengthen community, city and state capacities to care for those with HIV.”

Fourteen states, including New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and both Carolinas, will also receive Emerging Community grants based on the number of AIDS cases over the most recent 5-year period.

Part B awards also include formula base grants that can be used for home and community-based services, insurance continuation, ADAP assistance and other direct services. “Ryan White Part B awards reflect the urgent need for life-saving medications for those living with HIV/AIDS,” said Elizabeth Duke of HHS’ Health Resources and Services Administration, which manages the program. “Today we are thankful and proud that all ADAP waiting lists have been eliminated.”