PrEP

PrEP for HIV Prevention Services

Your Partner in Comprehensive HIV Prevention

At Kelly M. Farrow, Family Health Nurse Practitioner P.C., we are dedicated to empowering individuals with the tools and resources they need to protect their health. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective strategy for preventing HIV transmission and is available to individuals at risk of HIV exposure through sex or injection drug use.

What Is PrEP?

PrEP is a daily oral medication or periodic injection that significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection when taken as prescribed. It’s a safe and well-tolerated option for anyone seeking to take proactive steps in HIV prevention.

PrEP is recommended for individuals who:

Have an HIV-positive partner.
Have multiple sexual partners or inconsistent condom use.
Are involved in sex work.
Use injection drugs or share needles.
Have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past six months.

Our PrEP Services

We provide personalized, judgment-free care to help you stay protected and informed. Our comprehensive PrEP services include:

1. Initial Consultation

Private and confidential risk assessment.
Discussion of your health goals and sexual health needs.

2. Lab Testing

Routine HIV testing to ensure HIV-negative status before starting PrEP.
Additional screenings for STIs, kidney function, and other health indicators.

3. PrEP Prescription

Oral PrEP (daily pill): Truvada® or Descovy®.
Injectable PrEP (long-acting): Apretude®.

4. Ongoing Care & Monitoring

Regular follow-up visits to monitor your health and ensure PrEP is working effectively.
Support for any side effects or concerns.

5. Insurance & Financial Assistance

Guidance navigating insurance coverage.
Assistance accessing financial support programs for medication costs.

Why Choose Us?

Experienced Providers: Our team has specialized training in HIV prevention and sexual health care.
Holistic Approach: We focus on the whole person, providing education, resources, and support tailored to your lifestyle.
Accessible Care: Flexible appointment scheduling, telehealth options, and expert navigation of financial resources make starting PrEP simple and stress-free.

Take Control of Your Health Today

PrEP is an empowering choice for individuals who want to take charge of their health and reduce their risk of HIV. If you’re interested in starting PrEP or have questions about whether it’s right for you, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation. Together, we’ll develop a prevention plan that fits your needs and supports your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PrEP?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a preventive medication for individuals at risk of HIV. When taken as prescribed, it reduces the risk of HIV from sexual contact by about 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74% .

Who should consider taking PrEP?

PrEP is recommended for individuals who:

Have an HIV-positive partner.
Have multiple sexual partners or inconsistent condom use.
Engage in injection drug use or share needles.
Have been diagnosed with an STI in the past six months .

How does PrEP work?

PrEP contains antiretroviral medications that prevent HIV from establishing an infection in the body if exposure occurs. When taken consistently, it creates a protective barrier in the bloodstream and tissues .

What medications are used for PrEP?

There are two main options:

Daily oral PrEP pills: Truvada® (tenofovir/emtricitabine) and Descovy® (tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine).
Injectable PrEP: Apretude® (cabotegravir), a long-acting injection administered every two months .

Is PrEP safe?

Yes, PrEP is generally safe and well-tolerated. Some people experience mild side effects such as nausea or headaches, which usually resolve over time. Regular follow-up with your provider ensures safety and monitors for rare side effects like kidney or bone issues.

How do I start PrEP?

Starting PrEP involves:

An initial consultation to assess your risk and discuss options.
Lab tests to confirm HIV-negative status and check kidney health.
Prescribing the appropriate PrEP medication.

Do I still need to use condoms while on PrEP?

PrEP provides excellent protection against HIV but does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unintended pregnancy. Using condoms along with PrEP offers broader protection.

Does insurance cover PrEP?

Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover PrEP. Assistance programs are also available for those without insurance or facing high out-of-pocket costs.

Where can I learn more or start PrEP?

To learn more or start PrEP, contact us to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll help you navigate the process and provide ongoing support to protect your health.

Can I take PrEP if I am under 18 years old?

PrEP is approved for adolescents who weigh at least 77 pounds. We highly recommend patients under 18 years old speak with their pediatrician to see if they can access PrEP in the same place they get their primary care. If you would prefer to get PrEP from our practice, we are able to prescribe PrEP to mature adolescents (age 14+) if you are in care with a pediatrician for your regular primary care needs. If you do not have a pediatric primary care provider, but are interested in PrEP, please still reach out to us! We will help connect you with a pediatric primary care provider while we are seeing you for PrEP.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – PrEP Basics.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – HIV.gov: PrEP Information.
World Health Organization (WHO) – Guidelines on PrEP for HIV Prevention.
American Academy of HIV Medicine – PrEP Guidelines.