Vera Institute Releases Final Report on Foster Children's Experiences in HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials

In 2005, in response to allegations that New York City foster children had been inappropriately and harmfully enrolled in clinical trials related to HIV and AIDS beginning in the1980s, the NYC Administration for Children’s Services asked the Vera Institute of Justice to conduct a thorough review of its past policies and the children’s experiences and outcomes in trials. After reviewing thousands of child welfare files, interviewing key stakeholders, and reviewing voluminous policy materials, Vera is releasing its final report, The Experiences of New York City Foster Children in HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials. The review found that no children were removed from their families to participate in trials and that no children died because of medications they took in trials. But it also identified many serious concerns, including violations of Children’s Services’ policies and federal regulations designed to protect people in research studies. The report also includes recommendations intended to guide policymakers who choose to make trial participation an option in future circumstances.

The Vera Institute of Justice is an independent, nonprofit organization that combines expertise in research, demonstration projects, and technical assistance to help leaders in government and civil society improve the systems people rely on for justice and safety.

To learn more about the Vera Institute of Justice, visit www.vera.org.