PrEP Policies and Programs Help End the HIV Epidemic

TargetHIV

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective approach for HIV prevention and is widely available in the U.S. at little to no cost--as of 2021. Here's a quick recap of the history and resources for maximizing access.

Guidelines Evolve

Expansion of PrEP coverage began at the state level as early as 2014 with select states endorsing PrEP as part of their ending HIV plans. In 2017, federal guidelines endorsed PrEP to reduce the risk of HIV infection, The evolution in coverage accelerated in 2019 with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's (USPSTF) issued an "A" recommendation that clinicians should offer PrEP to individuals who are at high risk of HIV acquisition.

These directives were based on multiple studies that have documented PrEP to be highly effective for diverse populations. Awareness and usage by higher risk individuals, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM), has increased significantly. Racial/ethnic disparities remain but have improved (see CDC Report: PrEP and ART Use Among Gay/Bi Men). 

Costs and Coverage

Costs and coverage gaps for PrEP significantly lessened in recent years.

HRSA: PrEP Policies and Tools

PrEP plays a major role in the new Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative and its goal to substantially reduce new HIV infections. EHE builds upon multiple HRSA programs and policies. 

Search the Conference Presentations database for RWHAP presentations on prevention and other topics and search for PrEP tools on TargetHIV.