PrEP – HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis - Prospera Internal Medicine and Aesthetics

At Prospera Internal Medicine & Aesthetics, we offer comprehensive PrEP services to help you stay healthy and confident.

What is PrEP?

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication regimen that significantly reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP can be very effective in preventing HIV infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by up to 99% when taken daily.

Why Choose Prospera in San Diego PrEP for HIV Prevention?

Direct Primary Care

Build a strong relationship with a healthcare provider who understands your needs and offers personalized care.

Convenient and Affordable

No co-pays for DPC members.

Easy scheduling and prompt appointments with extended time slots.

$99 monthly membership fee with comprehensive benefits, including PrEP consultations and monitoring.

$100 one-time enrollment fee per person or family.

Discretion and Expertise

Our team provides confidential and compassionate care in a welcoming environment. We are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest PrEP guidelines and best practices.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

We offer a variety of services tailored to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community, including gender-affirming care.

Telemedicine Appointments

Get the care you need from the comfort of your own home for eligible PrEP consultations and follow-up visits.

Is PrEP Today Right for Me or My Loved One?

Our team can help you determine if PrEP is right for you. We will answer your questions, address any concerns, and guide you through the entire process. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation: Discuss your sexual health history and risk factors for HIV. We will also review your overall health and medications to ensure PrEP is a safe and effective option for you.

Lab Testing: Get tested for HIV to ensure you are eligible for PrEP. You may also need other STI tests depending on your individual needs.

Prescription: If PrEP is right for you, we will provide you with a prescription and ongoing monitoring. This includes regular check-ins to discuss any side effects, refill your prescription, and monitor for HIV every 3 months.

DPC Membership Bonus: As a DPC member, you’ll receive exclusive benefits, including 15% off aesthetic services and free laser hair removal for transgender women.

Common questions about prep

Is PrEP 100% effective in preventing HIV?

PrEP is highly effective, but not foolproof. According to the CDC, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by up to 99% when taken daily. However, it is important to remember that PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is also essential to take PrEP exactly as prescribed for it to be most effective.

Who should consider taking PrEP?

PrEP is a safe and effective option for anyone at risk of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. This can include people who:

Exchange needles or syringes

Have an HIV-positive partner

Have multiple sexual partners

Do not always use condoms correctly or consistently

What are the side effects of PrEP?

Some people experience mild side effects when they first start taking PrEP, such as nausea, headache, fatigue, or weight loss. These side effects usually go away within a few weeks. If you experience any side effects that bother you, be sure to talk to your provider at Prospera.

How often do I need to take PrEP?

For PrEP to be most effective, it is crucial to take it exactly as prescribed by your provider. We currently offer two oral medication options for PrEP: Truvada and Descovy. Both medications are typically taken once daily.

How much does PrEP cost?

The cost of PrEP can vary depending on your insurance coverage. At Prospera, our $99 monthly DPC membership fee covers all in-person and telemedicine consultations for PrEP, as well as ongoing monitoring and lab test orders (excluding the actual lab costs). We can help you navigate your insurance plan to understand coverage for the medication itself.

Additional Considerations with PrEP

PrEP is not a cure for HIV. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it is important to get tested right away. PrEP cannot prevent HIV infection if you are already infected.

PrEP does not protect against other STIs. It is still important to practice safe sex by using condoms and getting regular STI testing.

Regular follow-up care is essential. Even while taking PrEP, it is important to see your provider at Prospera for regular check-ups and HIV testing every 3 months.

Taking control of your sexual health is an important step towards overall well-being. If you have any questions about PrEP or if you think PrEP might be right for you, contact Prospera Internal Medicine & Aesthetics today to schedule a confidential consultation.

We understand that starting a new medication can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s discuss your sexual health goals and develop a personalized plan to keep you healthy.