Imagine a world where a daily pill or a shot every two months could prevent HIV with over 99% effectiveness. Now stop imagining—because that world exists today, right here in Northeast Georgia. It’s called PrEP, and despite being a game-changer in HIV prevention, most people have never heard of it.
At LiveForward, we’re working to change that. Because in our 10-county service area, PrEP isn’t just a medical breakthrough—it’s a lifeline that could end HIV transmission in our communities. Yet myths, misinformation, and cost concerns keep this powerful prevention tool out of reach for many who need it most.
What Exactly Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. Breaking that down: “Pre” means before, “Exposure” means coming into contact with HIV, and “Prophylaxis” means treatment to prevent disease. Simply put, PrEP is medicine you take before potential HIV exposure to prevent infection.
Think of it like birth control, but for HIV prevention. Just as birth control pills prevent pregnancy when taken regularly, PrEP prevents HIV when taken as prescribed. It’s that straightforward.
Currently, there are two FDA-approved forms:
- Daily pills (Truvada or Descovy): One pill every day provides continuous protection
- Injectable PrEP (Apretude): A shot every two months after initial loading doses
When taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%. For people who inject drugs, it reduces risk by at least 74%.
Busting the Myths: Who Should Really Consider PrEP?
Myth #1: “PrEP is only for gay men” Reality: PrEP is for anyone at risk of HIV exposure. This includes:
- Anyone with a sexual partner who has HIV
- People with multiple sexual partners
- Those who don’t consistently use condoms
- People who’ve had an STI in the past 6 months
- Anyone who injects drugs
- Sex workers
- Anyone who wants extra protection and peace of mind
Myth #2: “Taking PrEP means you’re promiscuous” Reality: Taking PrEP means you’re taking control of your health. It’s no different than wearing a seatbelt—it’s about protection, not judgment about your lifestyle.
Myth #3: “PrEP has terrible side effects” Reality: Most people experience no side effects. Some may have mild nausea or headaches initially, but these typically resolve within a few weeks. Serious side effects are rare.
Myth #4: “If I take PrEP, I don’t need condoms” Reality: While PrEP is highly effective against HIV, it doesn’t protect against other STIs or pregnancy. Many people use both PrEP and condoms for comprehensive protection.
Myth #5: “PrEP is only for young people” Reality: HIV doesn’t discriminate by age. Anyone sexually active or at risk—regardless of age—can benefit from PrEP.
The Money Question: Making PrEP Affordable
“I can’t afford PrEP” is the most common concern we hear. Here’s the truth: Most people can get PrEP for free or at very low cost.
If You Have Insurance:
Under the Affordable Care Act, PrEP must be free under almost all health insurance plans. That means:
- No charge for the medication
- No copays for clinic visits
- No cost for required lab tests
If You Don’t Have Insurance:
Multiple programs ensure PrEP remains accessible:
Manufacturer Assistance Programs:
- Gilead’s Advancing Access program covers the full cost of daily PrEP for eligible uninsured patients
- ViiVConnect helps with injectable PrEP costs
- Income is often NOT a factor for these programs
State Programs: Georgia has PrEP assistance programs that help cover:
- Medication costs
- Doctor visits
- Lab work
Community Health Centers: Federally qualified health centers provide PrEP on a sliding fee scale based on income. Many patients pay nothing.
Ready for PrEP Program: A national program providing free PrEP to those who qualify, regardless of insurance status.
The bottom line? If you want PrEP, there’s almost always a way to get it affordably. LiveForward can help navigate these programs and connect you with resources.
Local Success Stories: PrEP in Action
Sarah’s Story: “My boyfriend has HIV. Even though he’s undetectable and can’t transmit it, taking PrEP gives me extra peace of mind. It’s one less thing to worry about in our relationship.”
Marcus’s Journey: “I’m a recovering addict. While I’m clean now, PrEP protects me if I ever relapse. It’s part of my overall health strategy, just like my recovery meetings.”
Jennifer’s Choice: “As a single woman dating in Athens, PrEP lets me control my HIV prevention. I don’t have to rely on what partners tell me about their status. It’s empowering.”
Tom’s Experience: “I’m 58 and recently divorced. Getting back into dating was scary enough without worrying about HIV. PrEP helped me feel confident again. Age doesn’t protect you from HIV—PrEP does.”
The Bigger Picture: PrEP + U=U = Ending HIV
Here’s something revolutionary: Between PrEP for HIV-negative people and treatment making HIV-positive people unable to transmit the virus (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable), we have the tools to end HIV transmission entirely.
When someone with HIV takes their medication and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot sexually transmit HIV—even without condoms. Combined with PrEP protecting those without HIV, we’re creating a future where HIV transmission becomes impossible.
This isn’t a distant dream. It’s happening now in communities that embrace these tools.
Getting Started with PrEP: Your Next Steps
1. Talk to a Healthcare Provider Any doctor can prescribe PrEP. Don’t have a regular doctor? LiveForward can connect you with PrEP-friendly providers.
2. Get Tested You’ll need an HIV test before starting PrEP (you must be HIV-negative) and regular testing while on it.
3. Choose Your Method Discuss with your provider whether daily pills or bi-monthly injections work better for your lifestyle.
4. Access Financial Assistance Before filling your prescription, ensure you’re enrolled in assistance programs to minimize costs.
5. Stay Consistent PrEP only works when taken as prescribed. Set reminders, use pill organizers, or choose injectable PrEP if daily pills are challenging.
Why This Matters for Northeast Georgia
In rural areas like ours, where HIV stigma runs deep and healthcare access is limited, PrEP offers something powerful: prevention without disclosure. You don’t need to discuss partners’ HIV status or negotiate condom use. You simply protect yourself.
For our communities—where everyone knows everyone and privacy is precious—PrEP provides discrete, effective protection. It’s healthcare on your terms.
