More than $2.2 billion in Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program grants were awarded to cities, states and local community-based organizations throughout the 2015 fiscal year, according to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia Burwell.

The grant money supports a comprehensive system of care, which ensures that hundreds of thousands of individuals affected by HIV have continued access to support services, critical HIV health care and necessary medications. For 25 years, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program has played a vital role when it comes to the public health-oriented response to HIV. The money provides adequate health care coverage and financial resources to those without the means to normally access treatment, services and medicines.

"Over the last 25 years, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program has made great strides moving clients along the HIV care continuum, an approach that helps communities plan for and provide a full range of emergency and long-term services for people living with HIV," said Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Acting Administrator James Macrae. "In 2013, 81 percent of program clients were retained in care and more than 78 percent of those who were in care are virally suppressed. This improves clinical and public health outcomes by preserving health, extending life expectancy, and reducing HIV transmission."

Under different parts of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, more than $2 billion was assigned to different areas, cities, territories, community-based organizations and partnerships. Under Part A, a total of $624.7 million was awarded to 53 metropolitan areas, providing support and medical services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Part B offered approximately $1.3 billion to 59 states and territories, granting core medical and support services; also $11.2 million was awarded to Minority AIDS Initiative grants. Under Part C Early Intervention Services, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program awarded approximately $186.6 million to 347 local community-based organizations to offer support and core medical services to individuals suffering from HIV.

Approximately $66.8 million was given to 115 local community-based organizations across the nation to provide family-centered care to women, infants, children and youth under Part D. Additionally, $68.4 million was awarded clinical training, oral health services, support technical assistance and the development of innovative models. Those funds will go toward providing oral health care for people living with HIV. Additionally, millions will go toward education, training and healthcare professional, reducing HIV-related disparities and health inequities. The program is a critical and fundamental source of lifesaving services, care and treatment for HIV-infected individuals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Latinos are disporportionately affected by HIV, and 70 percent of new HIV diagnoses among Hispanics/Latinos occur in gay and bisexual men. Additionally, less than half of Latinos with HIV are receiving medication to treat their infection.

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