HIV is a serious health condition with enduring implications for individuals and communities. Although there are HIV treatment options available, prevention is always ideal. At Equality Health, we provide effective and reliable preventative medications like HIV PrEP prevention in Moore, OK for at-risk individuals. These medications or prevention methods (such as PrEP) make sure that people who have been affected by HIV do not spread the infection to other people. For more information on PrEP, call Equality Health at (405) 761-2762 for a consultation.
Game-Changing PrEP in HIV Prevention in Moore, OK
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) medication-based strategy is a game changer in HIV prevention. PrEP eliminates the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and reduces the probability of HIV transmission from drug injection by at least 74%. However, its effectiveness in preventing HIV depends on taking suitable medicines and adhering strictly to prescription guidelines.
At Equality Health, we can prescribe the oral PrEP medications Truvada and Descovy. We can also prescribe Apretude medication, the newest form of PrEP, which is injectable. These medications belong to a class of drugs called antiretrovirals, also used in combination with other medications for HIV treatment. Both of them work by impeding the replication of HIV within the body. When taken consistently, these medications effectively prevent the establishment of the virus and significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
However, it is important to note that PrEP is not a vaccine for HIV but rather a preventive strategy that necessitates regular adherence to maintain its efficacy.
PrEP Eligibility and Assessment: Is It Right For You?
Generally, PrEP is a prevention option for anyone who doesn’t have HIV and is at risk of getting HIV. Our professionals at Equality Health specifically recommend HIV PrEP treatment options for the following people–
- Men who have sex with men
- Individuals with an HIV-positive sexual partner
- People who engage in condomless sex with multiple partners
- Individuals who use injectable drugs and share needles or have sex partners who do
- Commercial sex workers
- Individuals with a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Anyone who wants PrEP to protect themselves from HIV
At Equality Health, we also comprehensively assess patients before initiating PrEP. This test typically involves–
- HIV testing: To confirm the individual’s HIV-negative status,
- STI screening: To ensure the individual does not have other STIs that can increase the risk of HIV transmission; and
- Kidney function test: To ensure the individual’s kidneys are healthy enough to process the medications effectively.
- Hepatitis B screening: Some PrEP medications must be carefully prescribed for those with an active hepatitis B infection.
Our PrEP Initiation and Prescription Process for Moore, OK
Our comprehensive process for initiating PrEP starts with a one-on-one consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers, who will assess the patient’s eligibility and discuss potential benefits and considerations. During this consultation, patients can also ask questions and address their concerns.
Next, we will conduct a comprehensive medical evaluation, typically including HIV testing, STI screening, and Kidney function tests. However, in certain cases, the assessment may include additional tests to ensure that a patient is suitable for PrEP.
Finally, we will talk through all of the potential side effects of PrEP medications and how to manage them. While PrEP is generally well-tolerated, it is essential to be aware of possible side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or changes in kidney function.
PrEP Monitoring and Follow-up: Stay on Top of Your Sexual Health
After initiating PrEP, regular monitoring and follow-up visits are crucial for maintaining optimal sexual health. These visits will again involve ongoing HIV testing, STI screening, and kidney function tests.
The frequency of follow-up visits may vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Still, staying on PrEP requires follow-up visits every 2-3 months to assess medication adherence, repeat HIV testing, and address patient concerns or questions. These visits also provide patients opportunities to seek additional support, education, and guidance to ensure maximum benefits from PrEP.
At Equality Health, we provide comprehensive care throughout your PrEP journey. Along with this, we provide services for all kinds of sexual diseases, such as STD testing, STD treatment, Hepatitis C testing, and Hepatitis C treatment in Moore. Our healthcare providers are here to support you, answer your questions, and address your concerns.
Together, we can achieve a future with minimal HIV transmission in Moore! Contact Equality Health today to schedule a consultation and learn more about PrEP for HIV prevention or PrEP medication in Moore, OK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
PrEP is highly effective for HIV prevention. PrEP helps to block the process HIV uses to duplicate or replicate itself in your body. If we use PrEP correctly, it also reduces the risk of getting the virus after exposure. It is a highly effective medication with a 99% success rate if taken correctly.
Note: PrEP should not be used when HIV positive or as a method of HIV treatment.
PrEP treatment for HIV prevention costs will vary depending on your insurance. The price can change depending on the different medications used for PrEP as well. A monthly supply of PrEP with a generic brand can cost you around $70, while some that do not have generic versions yet will cost more.
Absolutely! PrEP is covered by most insurance plans and state medical programs. Under the Affordable Care Act, PrEP must be covered by almost all healthcare plans. Hence, you won’t be charged for your PrEP medication.
If you want to get PrEP, you can put your trust in Equality Health. Along with the PrEP, we also provide testing and counseling services for HIV. Our providers with years of experience will assist you and show you the right way of taking PrEP for better results. Our #1 goal is to reduce your chance of getting HIV through physical contact or drug use with our PrEP medication.
You should consider getting PrEP for the following reasons:
- If you are HIV-negative
- You have been sexually active in the past six months
- Have not consistently used protection during physical involvement
- Have been diagnosed with an STD in the past six months
- If you are interested in taking action to prevent HIV infection
