Division of HIV and STD Programs
600 S. Commonwealth Ave., 10th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Phone:(213) 351-8000
Fax: (213) 738-0825
Email: DHSP@ph.lacounty.gov
Office Hrs: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) has been
available for more than a decade. PEP is an
intervention to prevent HIV infection after a recent
sexual or needle stick exposure. PEP involves
treatment with antiretroviral HIV drugs daily for 28
days.
Studies suggest that PEP may be up to 80%
effective in preventing an HIV seroconversion if the
antiretroviral drugs are taken correctly with a high
level of adherence. For PEP to be effective,
the prophylaxis must be started as soon as possible
after the exposure, but no more than 72 hours.
What is
PrEP?
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
is a daily pill taken by
individuals, who are
HIV-negative,beforethey
are potentially exposed to
HIV. PrEP has been shown to
reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99% when
taken consistently.
Is PrEP Affordable for my Patient?
PrEP is covered by health
insurance plans including Medi-Cal and Medicare.
If your patient is on either of these health
insurance plans, the prescription will not require
pre-authorization. The majority of private
health insurance plans include PrEP in their
formulary, although costs to the patient will vary
by plan and insurance provider.
Patient
assistance programs are available to patients on
private health insurance plans which can assist with
co-pay and deductibles.
Where can I Receive more Guidance on Services
Related to PrEP/PEP?
Clinicians seeking advice and consultation on PrEP
can call the hotline at 855 HIV PrEP (855-448-7737).
For more information on the services offered through
the PrEP-line, visit the national
Clinician
Consultation Center website.
National Phone Consultation Center
warmline - (888)
448-4911 (9a.m. - 2 a.m. EST, 7 days a week)
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