The impact of HIV and AIDS -- a generation-defining epidemic -- on the LGBTQ community cannot be overstated. But now more than ever, incredible progress has been made in our ability to protect patients from contracting HIV in the first place and slowing the spread of the disease worldwide. Did you know that with PrEP, you can reduce your risk of HIV infection by 99%?
At Allies for Health + Wellbeing, we want to make it possible for you to take control of your sexual health, protect yourself from HIV, and live a full life without fear. That’s why our HIV & PrEP specialist team is proud to remove barriers and offer both PrEP treatment and PEP to anyone who needs it, without cost as an obstacle. When you visit us at Allies, you’ll be respected and understood for who you are, and you’ll be cared for with zero judgment, every time.
If you’re at risk for HIV and you’re not currently taking PrEP, don’t wait another second to get started. Schedule your first consultation with us today -- we can’t wait to meet you!
PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) is an FDA-approved, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-recommended daily prevention regimen that, if followed, can reduce your risk of contracting HIV by more than 99 percent. The regimen includes a daily dose of the pill Truvada or Descovy, as well as regular HIV tests (every 3 months) and periodic kidney testing (every six months). Please note that only individuals who are verified as HIV negative can take PrEP.
PrEP is covered by most insurance companies. If you do not have insurance or have questions about payment options, Allies staff can help navigate that process.
PrEP is a tool you can choose to reduce your risk of HIV infection. PrEP is for people who are HIV-negative and vulnerable to contracting HIV, including:
You might consider PrEP if:
If you become an Allies PrEP patient, you can:
Additionally, Allies for Health + Wellbeing is proud to offer PrEP telemedicine to our patients who would prefer to receive an online PrEP prescription. TelePrEP is a safe, discreet way to start and keep up with your PrEP regimen, whether you’re at risk for COVID-19 or you just need a low-key option. If you’re interested in our telehealth services for going on PrEP, let us know!
Allies staff are highly trained in PrEP navigation. If you have any questions about PrEP and whether PrEP may be right for you, give us a call at 412-345-7456 and ask to speak to an Allies staff member about PrEP.
Allies for Health + Wellbeing is proud to offer PrEP telemedicine to our patients who would prefer to receive an online PrEP prescription. TelePrEP is a safe, discreet way to start and keep up with your PrEP regimen, whether you’re at risk for COVID-19 or you just need a low-key option. If you’re interested in our telehealth services for going on PrEP, let us know! Allies telemedicine visits are available for Pennsylvania residents only.
PrEP protects you against HIV during encounters that occur while you’re on the pill, but what happens if you’ve already been exposed? PEP (Post-exposure Prophylaxis) could help. PEP is a regimen of antiretroviral drugs that is designed to isolate the virus, stop its replication and the establishment of infection. However, PEP only works to protect you within 72 hours of exposure. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV (through any means), contact us or go to an emergency room within 72 hours to access PEP.
The most important thing to remember when discussing PrEP versus PEP is that PrEP is a preventative measure against HIV infection, while PEP is a tool to use if you’ve already had a high-risk encounter and fear you may be infected. Second exposure while on PEP hasn’t been studied extensively, but most professionals will tell you that PEP protects you from HIV within the 72-hour window after taking it.
That said, PEP is not a replacement for PrEP, and should be considered an emergency countermeasure. If you find yourself in need of PEP frequently, the team at Allies for Health + Wellbeing strongly urges you to consider starting a daily regimen of PrEP!
Allies for Health + Wellbeing is proud to provide Descovy for PEP, as well as Truvada PEP for those in need. Simply call us at (412) 345-7456 within 72 hours of exposure. We also encourage you to take advantage of our telehealth services, where you can get your PEP Period. If you call outside of clinic hours, (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday), please leave a message. An Allies Health Advocate will call you with an appointment to come in and begin treatment.
PrEP reduces your risk of HIV infection by 99% as long as you take it every single day. That’s why adherence to your prescription is the most effective way to reduce your risk of contracting HIV.
Please note that Allies Medical Clinic is not open on the weekends. If you need to be seen on a weekend, especially if you need PEP, please go to the nearest emergency room.
PrEP is generally well tolerated with few side effects. Our medical professionals can answer any questions you have concerning PrEP.
Patients have reported some mild side-effects after taking PEP, including upset stomach, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. These side-effects should not be long-lasting, and if you continue to feel them after 72 hours, contact your doctor as soon as you can.
Paying for your health + wellbeing should be the last thing you are worried about. You will have access to drug assistance programs to help cover co-pays, as well as PrEP being covered by most insurance providers.