AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, is rejecting a trial balloon floated by Obama Administration officials that suggests $30 million in additional funding could adequately help close a gaping $126 million hole in funding for the nation's AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), the federal and state funded, state run network of assistance programs that supply lifesaving AIDS drugs to low-income Americans in need.
“ADAPs across the country are in crisis. The suggestion from Obama Administration officials that $30 million could adequately address a $126 million shortfall that is crippling ADAP and killing Americans is just totally unacceptable and we need to pop that balloon”
As many states face massive budget shortfalls and seek to cut services, more than twelve states have gone as far as instituting patient waiting lists. As of June 25th—the eve of National HIV Testing Day on June 27th—more than 1,500 patients across the nation have been placed on ADAP waiting lists to receive access to lifesaving antiretroviral AIDS treatment. In addition, many ADAPs are raising eligibility requirements, which shut out even more people from these programs.
"ADAPs across the country are in crisis. The suggestion from Obama Administration officials that $30 million could adequately address a $126 million shortfall that is crippling ADAP and killing Americans is just totally unacceptable and we need to pop that balloon," said AHF President Michael Weinstein. "While $30 million is a start, it is nowhere near adequate to address the scope of the crisis. And while several drug companies have recently offered some price and rebate concessions to ADAP, we believe that industry as a whole can—and should—still do more. However, Administration officials must also step up to the plate and identify appropriated but unspent funds to redirect to cash-strapped ADAPs. The government should act like its citizens' lives depend on it—they do!"
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