Planned Parenthood now providing two drugs to patients at risk of HIV exposure

Planned Parenthood clinics across Wisconsin now are offering two drugs, commonly known as PrEP and PEP, to those at risk of HIV exposure.

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a pill taken daily to prevent HIV, a virus that attacks the body's immune system and, if left untreated, can lead to AIDS. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is about 99% effective at preventing HIV through sexual exposure and about 74% effective at preventing HIV if exposure to the virus occurred through injection drug use.

PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, is an antiretroviral medicine that inhibits the growth of retroviruses like HIV. It must be taken within 72 hours of a possible exposure to HIV. Starting PEP after potential exposure does not guarantee HIV prevention, but the sooner it is started the better the possible outcomes, according to a Planned Parenthood statement. 

Patients can be seen in-person or over telemedicine for PrEP and PEP services. Medication will be available at Planned Parenthood health centers or a prescription can be sent to the patient's pharmacy. 

“Planned Parenthood is focused on meeting the needs of our patients across Wisconsin, and providing essential medications to prevent HIV infection is an essential piece of providing the care our communities need,” said Amy Doczy, vice president of Patient Services at Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. “Confidential, high-quality, affordable health care is our top priority, and we look forward to welcoming all individuals who need care regardless of their insurance or immigration status, gender and sexual identity.” 

In 2021, the federal government announced that PrEP and PEP must be covered by all health insurers with no cost sharing on the drugs, lab tests and clinic visits.  

The availability of the medications continues Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin’s expansion of services available to patients. In the past year, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin has added vasectomy services, expanded access to gender affirming hormone therapy, resumed abortion services and launched a new app, PP Direct.  

To learn more and make an appointment, visit ppwi.org. 

Jessica Van Egeren is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's enterprise health care reporter. She can be reached at jvanegeren@gannett.com.