PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

At WNCCHS, prevention is at the heart of what we do. If you are at risk of HIV, please contact us. We provide PrEP services and other prevention strategies to ensure you stay protected. We will also monitor, advice and support you. Learn more about WNCCHS HIV Care here.

About PrEP

PrEP is a medication that helps at-risk HIV-negative individuals lower their chances of becoming infected with the virus. If you are exposed to HIV but have been taking PrEP correctly, the treatment will stop you from getting HIV. High-risk individuals include a person who have had multiple sexual encounters without condoms, injection drug user, someone in a sexual relationship with an HIV partner; a high-risk pregnant woman, breastfeeding mother or woman trying to conceive.

PrEP treatment is ongoing, with some patients remaining on the medication for years, while others may stop and restart as their life circumstances change. Most insurance plans cover PrEP, and WNCCHS offers patient assistance programs to help cover the cost. After starting PrEP, patients need to visit their primary care provider every three months for follow-up care.

Benefits of PrEP

  • High Efficacy: Significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection when taken consistently.

  • Flexible Treatment: Can be started and stopped as needed, based on life circumstances.

  • Affordable Care: Covered by most insurance plans, with patient assistance programs available for those without insurance.

  • Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your primary care provider ensure ongoing support and monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • PrEP is recommended for individuals at high risk for HIV, including those with multiple sexual partners, people who inject drugs, and those in relationships with HIV-positive partners.

  • When taken daily, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90% and by more than 70% for people who inject drugs. Combining PrEP with other prevention methods, like using condoms, can further lower your risk.

  • Contact your primary care provider at WNCCHS to discuss your risk for HIV and determine if PrEP is right for you. If so, you will begin with a medical assessment and start taking the medication daily.

  • No, PrEP only protects against HIV. Using condoms and other prevention methods can help protect you from other STIs.

  • Most insurance plans cover PrEP. WNCCHS also offers patient assistance programs to help cover the costs for those without insurance.

  • Yes, PrEP treatment can be adjusted based on your changing risk factors. Discuss any changes in your risk with your primary care provider, who can help you decide whether to continue or stop the medication.

  • For those seeking further information about PrEP and its effectiveness in preventing HIV, the following resources can provide valuable insights and guidance:

    North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services: The NC DHHS provides information on STD programs, testing, and prevention, including PrEP. This resource is especially useful for residents of North Carolina seeking local support and services, criteria, and how to get started.

    CDC – Act Against AIDS: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides comprehensive resources on HIV prevention, including the use of PrEP. Their Act Against AIDS campaign is a source of trustworthy information and support tools.

    National Institutes of Health: The NIH offers a wide range of fact sheets and research findings on PrEP and other preventive measures against HIV. This site is ideal for those looking to understand the scientific backing and data supporting PrEP usage.

    HIV.gov – Ready, Set, PrEP: This government initiative offers detailed information about accessing PrEP, eligibility criteria, and how to get started.