PrEP Services

In an effort to eliminate HIV infections, the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County (FDOH-Osceola) is offering Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), taking PrEP daily reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 99 percent. Among people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by more than 74 percent. Persons taking PrEP should also continue to use other proven prevention strategies, including condoms and safer sexual practices.

Initially, patients requesting PrEP services are evaluated clinically and, if indicated, are able to receive immediate access to PrEP medications. Consideration is then given to every patient based on their eligibility requirements, which includes their financial status and assisting them with access to PrEP services. Although the prescription is free, the comprehensive evaluation does have a fee. A sliding fee scale has been established and is based on income eligibility.

Evaluation services include client education, HIV testing, HCV testing, liver function test and the prescription of PrEP medications. There is a 3-month follow up after PrEP initiation to assess and monitor an individual’s HIV status, adherence to PrEP medication, need to continue PrEP, review of side effects and education on prevention behaviors such as safer sex and condom use.

If you are sexually active, PrEP may be an option for you.

What to expect during your first visit:

Clients can call 407-343-2000 or come in to the FDOH-Osceola STD clinic located at 1875 Fortune Road in Kissimmee, Florida to set up an appointment with a Prep Coordinator.

• A rapid HIV test will be conducted on all PrEP Clients on their appointment date (Regardless of any recent test). If the result is negative, clients will be referred to the PrEP Coordinator for education and to start the paperwork. Clients will then be referred to the provider for more information and examination.
• Clients will be sent to the lab for blood work.
• Clients will be provided with a 30 day supply of medication, regardless of whether or not they have insurance, and provided with an appointment for lab review.

Note: In order to receive PrEP services, the client must be HIV negative. Clients must also complete labs every 90 days and keep appointments for lab reviews with the healthcare provider.

What you need to bring to your appointment:

All clients are required to bring their photo ID and insurance if any; otherwise they will be offered the patient assistance program.

Clinic Hours for PrEP appointments:

PrEP is now offered by appointment only, Monday thru Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Last appointment will be taken at 3:30pm.