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A pill or injection to help protect you from a lifelong infectious disease.
PrEP
PrEP
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication you can take to reduce your chances of contracting HIV (even by 99%) during sexual encounters. Combined with safe sex practices, you can protect yourself and others from HIV. It can even be used for those who also share drug injection equipment.
ANYONE is qualified to take PrEP if they would like to stay HIV-negative. There are three different methods to take PrEP today:
Daily PrEP: one pill every day
On-demand PrEP (2-1-1): a method to take PrEP for those who rarely have sex, but still want protection against HIV (cis-men only)
Injectable PrEP: an injection called Apertude taken every two months eliminates the need to take pills and protects you from HIV
Regardless of the method you choose and also dependent on the physiology of the individual, everyone deserves fair access to PrEP. Talk to your current provider or use the link below to find where you can get started on PrEP today.
PEP
PEP
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is different from PrEP, as you only take it if you may have been potentially exposed to HIV and are not currently on PrEP. This medication must be taken within 72 hours of exposure. If passing this window, it is highly recommended to conduct an HIV/STD screening to rule out any possible exposure.
ANYONE who has had a potential HIV exposure is qualified for PEP. Exposure incidents that can cause concern for PEP include:
broken/no condom during sex with a one-time partner
unknown status of partner
Sharing of needles and drug equipment that may involve blood-swapping
Victim of sexual assault
PEP medication varies from each medical site but it will be one of three options:
Biktarvy
Truvada & Tivicay
Truvada & Isentress
These regimens usually consist of taking the medication for 28 days. Most people start PrEP after completing PEP to prevent any future exposures if sexually active. If in need of PEP, visit your local urgent care, emergency room, or medical center specializing in HIV/STD screening and treatment.
Insured
Insured
ALL insurance should have no problem covering PrEP medication for those who are interested. If any co-payments are involved with your PrEP care, the program PrEP-AP Insured can cover the costs your insurance doesn't, making you have no out-of-pocket fees for PrEP.
Uninsured
Uninsured
No insurance? No problem! There are county programs that help keep you covered for PrEP. This includes coverage for the doctor's visit, labs, and medication for PrEP. In LA County, individuals may enroll in PrEP-AP Uninsured and the Gilead Assistance Program for coverage of PrEP care.
Confidentialtiy
Confidentialtiy
Problems using your insurance due to personal issues? The PrEP-AP program, offered by LA County, offers confidential access to PrEP. This will cover everything related to PrEP care and will not use your insurance at all.
PrEP Coverage Policy
PrEP Coverage Policy
California Senate Bill No. 159 was passed to increase access to PrEP and PEP services. It requires that insurance prohibit the need for a prior authorization for PrEP coverage. Insurance must fully cover one of the three PrEP pills (Descovy, Truvada, or generic Truvada) at no cost to patients.
To read more about the bill, visit Equality California.
For more information on PrEP-AP and the different options for PrEP coverage, as well as finding your nearest PrEP-AP enrollment center, visit their site here: PrEP-AP
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