Dr. Demetre: So this question is about getting PrEP. How do you start. Can I get PrEP from my regular doctor, or is there a special kind of doctor?
Dr. David: Got questions about PrEP? #AskTheHIVDoc has all the answers.
Dr. Demetre: I prescribe PrEP so I tend to think that special doctors do it, but the reality is, any doctor can do it. If they have a prescription pad, if they can write a prescription, they can write a prescription for PrEP. The problem is, not every one of them is up to speed, so you may have to do some footwork. What that means is, if you have friends who are on PrEP, talk to them about how they get their PrEP, who they go to. Find providers or other physicians or doctors who actually know the deal. If you don’t have friends who are on PrEP, pick up the phone, go online, find your LGBT center, or any kind of LGBT provider near you. You may have to ask a lot of questions, it may not be super easy. But bottom line is, it’s worth it. If you’re at risk for HIV, it’s worth doing a little bit of legwork, because you can prevent getting infection.
Looking for a provider who can prescribe PrEP? Dr. Demetre shares tips on finding a doctor who can prescribe the HIV prevention pill.
Here is the truth – any medical professional who can prescribe medications, including doctors and nurse practioners, can prescribe PrEP, but not all are familiar with it.
If your health care provider does not offer PrEP, or you don’t have a regular provider, there are agencies that can help, including with assistance with payment related issues. Click here to find a PrEP-friendly provider near you.
Talk with a provider today to find out if PrEP is right for you.
#AskTheHIVDoc is a video series from Greater Than HIV featuring top HIV doctors providing answers to commonly-asked questions about HIV prevention, testing and treatment.
This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decision.
While we make every effort to keep the medical information on our website updated, we cannot guarantee that the information reflects the most up-to-date research. Also, please note the views expressed by individuals who appear in Greater Than HIV videos and other content are their own and are not made on behalf of any groups/organizations/associations.
