Learn more about the Ready, Set, PrEP program and how to get PrEP treatments at ZoomCare.
The CDC estimates that 1.2 million people are living with HIV in America—and many more are at risk of infection. But, thanks to advances in medicine, we have the tools available to stop HIV in its tracks. One such tool is pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP: a once daily pill regimen that significantly lessens your chances of contracting HIV.
When used as directed, PrEP reduces the risk of becoming infected with HIV through sexual contact by about 99 percent. It's even more effective if used in combination with condoms. Among people who use IV drugs, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74%.
In short, PrEP is one of the most powerful tools for HIV prevention. There's just one problem: PrEP drugs are expensive, and too few people use them. Only a small fraction of the one million people at risk for HIV in the United States have access to these potentially life-saving medications.
ZoomCare wants to eliminate factors that prevent people from seeking HIV prevention. That's why we're participating in Ready, Set, PreP: a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program makes PrEP medications more affordable and accessible by providing it at no cost to those who qualify.
Learn more about the Ready, Set, PrEP program, who qualifies, and how to get started below:
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It's the use of anti-HIV medication to keep HIV-negative people from becoming infected with the virus.
There are two medications approved for the indication of PrEP, Truvada and Descovy. Both come as a pill, and is taken once daily. When used as prescribed, it can reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sex by over 90%.
PrEP is recommended for those at elevated risk for HIV infection. This includes men who have sex with men (MSM), men and women with multiple sexual partners, persons involved in an open relationship, and those engaging in sexual activity with an HIV+ partner. The CDC also recommends PrEP for anyone who uses IV drugs.
Ready, Set, PrEP is a nationwide program that expands access to HIV prevention by providing cost-free PrEP medications to individuals who qualify.
Not totally. Under this program, the cost of medication is free. However, the costs of clinic visits and lab test costs are not covered.
Visit a ZoomCare clinic to discuss your options with a ZoomCare provider.
After receiving a negative HIV test result, ZoomCare will send your prescription to a participating pharmacy nearby. You can get your medication filled at the following pharmacies:
To continue treatment, you must remain HIV-negative and get tested every three months.
There are three qualifications for enrollment. You must:
Want to learn more about PrEP medications?
Check out our Q&A with ZoomCare Provider, Allison Ehrlich.
