Use of protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors among Medicaid beneficiaries with AIDS.

OBJECTIVES: This study compared the use of new antiretroviral treatments across sociodemographic subgroups during the 3 years after the introduction of these treatments and examined diffusion of the therapies over time.
METHODS: Merged surveillance and claims data were used to examine use of protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (PI/NNRTIs) among New Jersey Medicaid beneficiaries with AIDS.
RESULTS: In 1996, there were sharp disparities in use of PI/NNRTI therapy among racial minorities and injection drug users, even after control for other patient characteristics. These gaps had decreased by 1998. Higher PI/NNRTI treatment rates were also observed among beneficiaries enrolled in a statewide HIV/AIDS-specific home- and community-based Medicaid waiver program.
CONCLUSIONS: Even within a population of individuals similar in regard to health coverage, there were substantial sociodemographic differences in use of PI/NNRTIs during the early years after their introduction. These differences narrowed as new treatments became standard. Participation in a case-managed Medicaid waiver program seems to be associated with a more appropriate pattern of use. These results suggest a need to address nonfinancial barriers to care.