The Nation - News from May 10, 1989

Federal health officials announced that they have established a national, toll-free telephone service through which people infected with the AIDS virus can learn if they are eligible for government-sponsored studies of experimental treatments. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the new program uses a computerized listing to provide up-to-date information on National Institutes of Health research. Fauci said the service may encourage greater participation by blacks, Latinos and women. The Food and Drug Administration is developing a computerized listing that will include all studies of experimental AIDS treatments. It is expected to be included in the new service by July. To reach the information service, callers must dial 1-800-TRIALS-A between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.