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3. Access to HIV related medications and treatment options Current
treatment for HIV infection is based on the utilization of antiretroviral
therapies and other medications to treat opportunistic infections.
Access to these medications must be assured for all people to
improve overall health outcomes and quality of life. While certain
private insurance programs cover HIV related medications, severe
limitations exist in accessing life-prolonging medications. To
establish an emergency safety net providing access to medications,
the federal government created the AIDS Drug Assistance Program
(ADAP) under the Ryan White CARE Act and, under Medicaid, allows
states to provide optional prescription drug benefits. Currently,
ADAP is facing a budget crisis; Medicaid requires an AIDS defining
diagnosis before access; and Medicare’s outpatient medication
benefit will not be fully implemented until 2006. AIDS Action
will work with its members, Congress, the Administration, coalition
partners, and the private sector to support access to life saving
medication for all people living with HIV. [back
to introduction] |