PrEP & PEP

Whether you want ongoing protection or need emergency care after a possible exposure, CARES Health has you covered. PrEP and PEP are safe, effective options to prevent HIV, and our team is here to answer your questions and help you access the care that’s right for you.

PrEP

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a safe and effective medication that helps prevent HIV. At CARES Health, we make it easy to get started with PrEP and provide ongoing support to fit your needs. Explore our FAQs to learn more and see how you can access PrEP at our clinic.

Important Facts About PEP: 

  • PrEP is taken before exposure to HIV to prevent infection.

  • PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken consistently as prescribed.

  • PrEP does not protect against other infections like Hepatitis C, chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhea. 

  • Pre–Exposure Prophylaxis, or PrEP, is the method of taking HIV medication to prevent HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV transmission by about 99% through sex and by at least 74% through injection drug use. It’s one of several tools for HIV prevention, alongside regular testing, open communication with partners, and consistent use of condoms and lubrication.

    Please note: PrEP does not protect against other STIs or prevent pregnancy. 

  • PrEP is a safe and effective way to prevent HIV, and it may be right for you if you’re looking for added protection and peace of mind. 

    You may benefit from PrEP if you are not living with HIV and any of the following apply: 

    • You have a partner living with HIV 

    • You use condoms inconsistently or not at all 

    • You’ve recently been diagnosed with an STI 

    • You share injection equipment 

    Our team can help you decide if PrEP is the right choice for your health and lifestyle. 

  • PrEP is a prescription medication, and our team is here to support you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to ongoing care.  

    If you're considering PrEP, here are a few tips for speaking with your provider: 

    • Be direct. Let your provider know if you’re interested in PrEP. 

    • Ask questions. You deserve clear information to make informed decisions about your health. 

    • Be open. Sharing details about your sexual health and lifestyle helps your provider offer the best possible care. 

    Your health matters, and you’re in control. We're here to help you navigate the process with confidence and support. 

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PEP

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency medication that can help prevent HIV after a recent possible exposure. Acting quickly is key. Our team is here to guide you through the process and get you access to PEP right away.

Important Facts About PEP: 

  • PEP is for emergency use only. It is not a substitute for regular HIV prevention methods like condoms or PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). 

  • It is most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within a few hours of exposure. 

  • PEP does not protect against other infections like Hepatitis C, chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhea. 

  • Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a short-term emergency medication that can help prevent HIV after a potential exposure. PEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure to HIV to be effective. The sooner, the better. 

  • You may need PEP if you think you’ve been exposed to HIV through: 

    • Unprotected sex (especially if the partner’s HIV status is unknown or positive) 

    • Sexual assault 

    • Sharing needles or injection equipment 

    • A workplace incident (such as a needlestick injury for healthcare workers) 

  • PEP involves taking antiretroviral medicines every day for 28 days. These medications work by preventing HIV from taking hold and spreading in your body.

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  • If you think you need PEP, call us immediately or walk into our clinic. Our team will assess your risk, and if appropriate, start you on PEP right away. 

    We understand that this can be a stressful time. Our compassionate team is here to support you with medical care, education, and emotional support.