About PrEP

• Facts about PrEP in PDF format
• PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It's like taking a daily pill for blood pressure or birth control.
• PrEP is a single pill you take every day that reduces your chances of getting HIV if you are HIV-negative.
• PrEP is not a vaccine nor a cure for HIV. PrEP will not treat HIV.
• PrEP does not prevent nor treat any other STD.
• Condoms are still important to prevent STDs.
• You can get help paying for PrEP.
• For more information on PrEP or to take a quick quiz to see if PrEP is right for you, visit We Are 1.
• For post-exposure prophylaxis, visit www.kingcounty.gov/pep

What is involved in getting PrEP

___ See doctor

______ Get HIV test

_________ Take PrEP daily

____________ HIV test every 3 months

_______________ Stop when life changes*

*You might stop PrEP if you get into a monogamous relationship with an HIV-negative partner or if you decide you don’t want to have sex for a while or if you prefer to use condoms.

Getting a PrEP prescription

Your doctor should be able to prescribe PrEP for you. See list of local PrEP providers in King County (PDF) or see map below. Beginning August 2022, this list now includes languages and insurances of most PrEP providers if you have specific language or insurance needs.

The cost of PrEP and financial assistance

PrEP without insurance can cost up to $14,000 a year, however very few people end up paying that amount. Health insurance, including Medicaid, covers PrEP. Drug companies also provide discounts to those who qualify. Talk to your provider about options for assistance or visit the Washington State PrEP Drug Assistance Program.

For the longer term, it is a good idea to select health insurance that covers PrEP. Go to wahealthplanfinder.org or call 1-855-923-4633 if you don't have insurance, or don't have the right insurance plan.

Information for medical providers

• 2021 CDC PrEP clinical practice guidelines
  Comprehensive clinical information for the use of daily oral antiretroviral PrEP.
  
  
• PrEP Implementation Guidelines
  Local guidance from Public Health – Seattle & King County and Washington State Department of Health.
  • Dear Colleague letter, October 2015

Link/share our site at www.kingcounty.gov/prep