November 4, 2010 | Health Matters

Florida won't fund AIDS drugs because of budget

The Florida Department of Health has decided that in order to get its finances in order it will stop helping 350 uninsured people with HIV/AIDS pay for their life-saving drugs. Those affected have 30 days to figure out what they will now do to get the life-saving medication.

Another 2,000 people may be next to lose any state aid if the government cannot fix a $16 million budget shortfall. These people would join 2,300 others already on a waiting list for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. The savings: $10,000 per person per year.

Sadly, South Florida is considered one of the hardest hit areas for new HIV infections. That means even more people vying for help.

Seriously, there's nothing else that can be cut to help with the budget? Nothing at all?

Florida Ends Drug Assistance for 350 with HIV/AIDS [HIV Plus Mag]