What is PrEP?
PrEP is a method of HIV prevention in which individuals who are HIV-negative take a daily medication to help prevent infection.
If you take PrEP and become exposed to HIV, the medications can work to block the virus from causing infection in your body.
According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PrEP — when used correctly — reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90 percent. It also reduces the risk of getting HIV for those who use injection drugs by more than 70 percent. PrEP must be taken consistently for some time before it reaches its peak effectiveness.
Who Can Use PrEP?
PrEP is for anyone who is HIV-negative and who may be at risk of contracting HIV, who wants additional protection against the virus. If you use PrEP, you must take the prescribed medication daily and visit your health care provider regularly for HIV testing and other continuing care.
Penn offers a PrEP Navigator who will work with you to develop a personalized plan and link you with a prescribing provider, additional PrEP resources, and a broad array of services across the Penn Medicine health care system.
How Can You Get PrEP?
At your first visit, you and your provider will review your history to determine if PrEP is the right choice for you. You’ll take an HIV test, as well as be screened for hepatitis B and C and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
After PrEP is prescribed, you’ll meet with your provider regularly — about every three months — to be re-tested for HIV, undergo a general health check and see how you are doing on the medication. You also can be screened for other STIs as needed.
Make an Appointment
Office hours are 8 am to 5 pm, Mondays through Fridays. To speak with a social worker, call 267-601-5332, or request an appointment via our web form.
To prepare for your appointment, please have the following information ready:
• Insurance information (note: all insurances covered by the health system are accepted)
• Referral/authorization, if your insurance requires it
• Co-pay, if applicable