Getting started on PrEP is simple.
At The Project, we offer free and confidential HIV/STI testing and help you start PrEP as quickly as possible.
PrEP, when taken as directed, reduces the risk of getting an HIV infection by about 99%. That means it is more effective at preventing HIV than condoms alone. It does not prevent other STI’s (sexually transmitted infections) like gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis, so we still recommend using condoms to prevent those infections.
Start Here
To begin PrEP, the first step is to schedule testing.
- Call our team to schedule your visit
- Talk with a team member about your options
- Ask about Rapid Start PrEP
Call to get started: (515) 248-1595
Step 1: Get HIV/STI testing
Before starting PrEP, you will receive:
- An HIV test
- STI screening
This helps make sure PrEP is the right option for you.
Schedule a Prevention PrEP Consultation with the Prevention team at The Project. During your meeting with us, we’ll provide a free rapid HIV test to find out your HIV status.
Once we have a negative or non reactive result for HIV, we will help you navigate how to pay for PrEP. We’ll also get you set up to see one of the health care providers at Primary Health Care who are knowledgeable about PrEP and can provide a prescription.
In most cases, we can get you an appointment with the provider on the same day as your initial consultation, although there could be a wait.
Step 2: Meet with a provider
During your visit:
- Your results are reviewed
- You talk about PrEP options
- Your questions are answered
When you meet with your new PrEP provider, they will conduct a basic health exam and identify if you are a good candidate for PrEP. People who are at a higher risk of being exposed to HIV and who have healthy kidneys are generally considered good candidates for PrEP.
Step 3: Start PrEP
If PrEP is right for you:
- You may be able to start the same day
- You will receive a prescription or injection
- Follow-up care will be scheduled
PrEP options available
At The Project, you can choose:
- Daily PrEP pill
- Injectable PrEP (every 2 months)
Your provider will help you decide what works best for you.
If you both decide PrEP is right for you, your provider will write you a prescription that same day.
Good news! Primary Health Care has a pharmacy just a few steps away from your doctor’s office, located at the University Clinic. If you choose, you’ll be able to pick your prescription up there. We are also now able to mail your PrEP prescription to you each month at no extra charge.
What does PrEP cost?
PrEP may be:
- Free
- Covered by insurance
- Available with financial assistance
Our team can help you understand your options.
After your first visit with your PrEP provider, you’ll need to stop back in three months to see your provider again to make sure your kidneys are healthy and that you’re still HIV-negative.
PrEP if You’re Not in Des Moines
Besides our five locations in Des Moines, we also offer PrEP services in Marshalltown and Ames. The visit schedule looks slightly different, so call us at 515-248-1595 and ask for a Prevention Specialist to get things in order.
If you’re not near any of our clinics, fear not! We have a great partnership with TelePrEP Iowa which is based out of the University of Iowa. They can prescribe PrEP through a video or telephone consultation and connect you with a local facility to get your labs drawn.
