New York State's outdated definition of HIV-Illness is keeping thousands of New Yorkers from getting the help they need.

Thousands of poor people with HIV throughout New York State cannot access lifesaving supportive services, such as housing and nutritional assistance, because they don't meet New York's outdated definition of having "HIV-Illness."

What's wrong with the definition?

In the early days of the epidemic, the distinction between infection with the HIV virus and the terrible disease that it caused—AIDS—helped doctors understand when and how to treat patients. However, with nearly 30 decades of experience, we now know that when someone is infected with HIV, treatment should begin immediately or well before people get sick enough to meet the CDC's official definition of AIDS or the State's definition of HIV-illness.

Most people with HIV in New York are poor and battling homelessness, mental illness, and/or drug addiction.

Studies have shown that this population cannot access treatment or does not stay in treatment unless they also have stable homes and other supportive services. Without these services, poor people with HIV will not get healthy and we will not stop the spread of AIDS in New York State!

What needs to happen?

It's simple: Governor Paterson needs to tell the New York State Department of Health to change the definition of “HIV-illness” to “HIV-positive," thereby allowing any poor New Yorker with HIV to access lifesaving benefits and services. Let Paterson know you want him to make the change! Call the Governor at 518-474-8390; send him a letter at State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224, or email him through his website: http://www.state.ny.us/governor/

For more information about the Change the Definition campaign, call terri smith-caronia at 347-473-7418.