$3.4 million in AIDS funds to be distributed

Art Nadler

Friday, March 26, 1999 | 11:12 a.m.

The Clark County Board of Health has approved the distribution of more than $3.4 million in federal funds to agencies that treat and deal with HIV/AIDS patients.

The money was awarded to agencies in Clark, Nye and Arizona's Mohave County as part of the federal Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act that was enacted by Congress on Aug. 18, 1990.

Fran Courtney, director of clinics and nursing services with the county, said the money will be used to help agencies purchase medications, arrange transportation for patients and provide primary care and case management services.

In order to qualify for the funds, Clark County had to identify 2,000 AIDS cases covering a five-year period. The county was able to do so between 1993-97.

As of the end of February, the health district reported 3,080 AIDS cases throughout Clark County and 2,079 people who are HIV positive. Of both groups, the district reported that 1,500 of these people have died.

"This funding infuses 500 percent more money into the delivery of services," said Rick Reich, the county AIDS services coordinator. "We can help programs that were operating on bare bones, or that were inadequately serviced."

Clark and Nye counties have already been receiving money associated with the Ryan White Act -- a total of $650,000 -- since 1992, Courtney said. These funds have been used to provide health care and support services for people living with HIV disease.

Additionally, the University Medical Center Wellness Clinic has been receiving money associated with the act to support primary care and other services for people who have been diagnosed with HIV.

Other money received through the act is used for primary care and social services for AIDS patients and their families.