Illinois
lawmakers pass bill helping HIVers on Medicare

The Illinois senate on Monday unanimously passed a bill that helps low-income and HIV-positive Medicare beneficiaries pay for medications through the new Medicare prescription drug plan. Under the measure, all HIV-positive residents eligible for the Medicare drug plan will be shifted to it from all other state programs offering prescription drugs, including the state's AIDS Drug Assistance Program. This will help offset an anticipated $3 million ADAP shortfall next year, officials say, by leaving ADAP only for HIV patients who have no other access to antiretroviral drugs. Those who are moved to Medicare will receive assistance with the copayments for medications and enrollment fees.

The bill, which already passed the state house, now goes to Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who has pledged to sign it. If signed into law, it will take effect January 1. (The Advocate)