For thousands of people across the United States, PrEP – a medication that reduces the risk of HIV infection – is a key part of their day-to-day health routine.
For people who aren’t currently taking PrEP but want to, the biggest concern is often how much PrEP will cost them. There are multiple costs involved in accessing a prescription, including:
- The price of medication itself
- Frequent lab work
- Consultations with a healthcare practitioner
These costs can quickly add up if you’re paying out of pocket. Thankfully, there are many free and low-cost PrEP options available in the US.
Navigating these options can feel overwhelming — which is why we’ve put together this guide. Let’s look at how to access free or low-cost PrEP in the US, with different programs and resources that could work for you depending on your situation.
1. Private Health Insurance Coverage
Many insured people can get PrEP covered in full.
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most private health insurance plans now cover PrEP with minimal to no out-of-pocket costs. Insurance can typically cover both the medication and related lab work, which is necessary for monitoring while on PrEP.
The first step is to check with your insurance provider. You can confirm your plan’s PrEP coverage by taking a look at your benefits document or giving your insurance provider a call. Most private plans now cover PrEP, but it’s always good to double-check.
To avoid unexpected charges, ensure you’re seeing in-network providers for prescriptions and lab work.
2. Medicare & Medicaid
If you don’t have health insurance, you might be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid primarily serves individuals and families with lower incomes.
In most states, Medicaid provides PrEP coverage at little to no cost. Medicare, which is available to people age 65 and older, also covers PrEP.
If you’re not already on Medicaid, check your eligibility through your state’s Medicaid website or healthcare.gov.
Many health clinics and doctors accept Medicaid and can help you start on PrEP. Some states even have specialized resources for accessing PrEP through Medicaid.
Since Medicaid is state-managed, specific details about PrEP coverage may vary. Contact your state’s Medicaid office for more information through the Medicaid website.
3. Local and State Assistance Programs
Many states and cities have local assistance programs to help make HIV prevention medication more accessible.
Each state program offers different benefits. Most programs require you to have an income below a specific threshold to qualify.
These programs may cover or subsidize the cost of:
- Oral or injectable PrEP
- Consultation fees
- Copayments
- Lab tests
To find out which assistance programs exist in your state, take a look at NASTAD’s directory.
You can also visit your state or city’s health department website to learn more about local assistance programs. Community health clinics often have details on available programs as well.
4. Clinics and Community Health Centers
Some community health centers offer PrEP at reduced or no cost, especially those focused on LGBTQ+ health or located in underserved areas. These centers prioritize affordability and accessibility.
Here’s how to find a clinic offering free or low-cost PrEP:
- Search online for health centers in your area. Try looking for LGBTQ2S+ health clinics or reproductive health clinics. You could use the LGBTQ Centers map to find a center near you.
- Ask a local LGBTQ2S+ or health non-profit. Even if they don’t offer PrEP or health services, they might be able to direct you to a local health center that does.
- Schedule a visit. Call ahead to check about costs and eligibility requirements.
Certain community health centers offer free PrEP, while others offer sliding fee scales or discounts.
5. Consider Generic PrEP
In the US, PrEP is available in both branded and generic versions. The generic version of PrEP can provide the same level of protection against HIV as branded versions, but is available at a lower cost.
Not every type of PrEP is available in a generic version. Talk to a healthcare professional to discuss which type of PrEP is best for you.
6. Use a Telehealth Provider
Telehealth services simplify the process of getting PrEP while often reducing the cost.
With a telehealth provider, you can complete your consultation at home and have your prescription delivered to your door (if you are prescribed). You may still be required to visit a local clinic for lab tests before receiving your prescription.
Many telehealth providers of PrEP have programs in place to help you access PrEP at the lowest cost possible.
Finding Free or Affordable PrEP: Know Your Options
No one should have to face financial barriers to accessing HIV prevention. If you’re unable to pay for PrEP out of pocket, there are options available, from provincial programs to patient assistance and telehealth services.
Whether it’s through your family doctor, a local clinic or a telehealth provider, reach out to a healthcare professional to learn more about the most affordable way for you to get PrEP.
