Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
What is PrEP?
CommWell Health offers PrEP in Southeastern NC. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a pill people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use.
There are two medications approved for use as PrEP: Truvada and Descovy.
When used with other safer sex practices (like condoms), PrEP can help protect you from getting HIV from an infected partner.
According to the CDC: Daily PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90%. Among people who inject
Who Should Take PrEP?
- Men who have sex with men and have sex without a condom.
- In a sexual relationship with someone who is HIV positive.
- Someone who has sex for money, food, drugs and housing.
- Women trying to get pregnant with a partner who is HIV positive.
- Someone who has sex under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
- Someone who has sex with multiple partners f unknown or positive HIV status.
- Someone who has sex without a condom when you are the receptive sexual partner.
Before Your Visit
- Call 1-877-WELL ALL (1-877-935-5255) and ask to speak with a PrEP clinic coordinator.
- The clinic coordinator will determine your eligibility via phone and if you are eligible will schedule an appointment to meet with you.
PrEP at CWH
- Blood work will be drawn to determine your HIV status and you will be given a follow-up appointment to meet with the Infectious Disease provider.
- During the visit with the provider, you will receive prevention education, education on sexually transmitted diseases and condoms, and how to take medication and manage medication side effects.
- Ongoing visits with primary care provider and behavioral health specialist.
- Screening and counseling for mental health and substance abuse.
What costs Should I Consider?
For each PrEP clinic visit with your provider, you will be assessed a visit fee.
- If you are uninsured you will have cost or co-pays for each visit, medications, and labs. The fees are based on your income and family size.
- If you have insurance and PrEP is covered, you will be required to make a copay for the visit, medications, and any labs.
How Can I Pay for PrEP medications? Most insurance companies will cover PrEP but …
Various assistance programs are available to help pay certain PrEP costs. Eligibility is based on income limits and types of health insurance. Ask the PrEP coordinator about these programs.
