ADAP waiting lists grow to 1,263 people

The number of people on AIDS Drug Assistance Program waiting lists nationwide reached 1,263 people by the beginning of April, according to a National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors report released Friday. AIDS officials at a meeting in Washington, D.C., reported earlier this week that the estimated number of people on ADAP waiting lists was about 800. The new number is based on more up-to-date information collected from state-run ADAP programs across the country and in U.S. territories. According to the report, called "ADAP Watch," Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Montana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Washington, and West Virginia have waiting lists or access restrictions for their ADAPs, which provide free or low-cost anti-HIV medications to low-income HIV-positive people. According to NASTAD, Alabama, California, Iowa, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina, and Texas are all expected to enact new or additional ADAP restrictions in 2004. "The number of people on waiting lists for medications in the United States is unconscionable," NASTAD executive director Julie Scofield said. "We're shocked at this increase and worry that the number of people on waiting lists will continue to grow."