By Alex Garner Editor-at-Large

Here’s hoping that the AIDS Drug Assistance Program’s wait lists will be a thing of the past. Yesterday Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced nearly $80 million in grants to increase access to HIV care in the U.S. This is a promising move, as in the past so many people had to wait for access to lifesaving medication. Finally, the wealthiest country on the globe is providing vital medication to its people in need.

“The entire Administration is dedicated to fulfilling President Obama’s goal of an AIDS free generation and today’s announcement is one more step in that ongoing effort,” Secretary Sebelius said.  “These grants will help make a real difference in the lives of Americans living with HIV/AIDS, especially those in underserved communities.”

Many states were struggling to implement the National AIDS Strategy and this money will provide them with much needed help. It’s expected that this funding will not only eliminate wait lists but it will also expand care and treatment to 14,000 new people.

“With these funds, we’re putting the National HIV/AIDS Strategy into action,” said HRSA Administrator Mary K. Wakefield, Ph.D., RN.  “These investments allow us to further improve access to lifesaving drugs, and increase access to HIV care and treatment for Americans living with HIV.”

While many are disappointed in Obama’s decision not to attend the International AIDS Conference in person, few can argue with the policy decision he and his administration are making. This new money will, quite simply, save lives. 

A list of grantees and awards is available here.

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