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Shortfall In Texas HIV Program

By KRWG News

Texas – State officials overseeing an HIV medication program will seek ways to contain costs after the program failed to get money from the Legislature to make up a projected $19.2 million shortfall.

Patient advocates worry that the Texas AIDS Drug Assistance Program, which serves more than 15,000 Texans, will be closed. A state health official said Friday that no decision has been made.

In addition to tighter enrollment criteria, other possibilities include eliminating more expensive drugs and asking drug companies for discounts.

The shortfall is scheduled to occur beginning Sept. 1, 2012. The drugs are expensive, and most people with HIV or AIDS can't afford them.

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Information from: Austin American-Statesman, http://www.statesman.com

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.