LA County Department of Public Health

What is PEP?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) has been available for more than a decade. PEP is an intervention to prevent HIV infection after a recent sexual or needle stick exposure. PEP involves treatment with antiretroviral HIV drugs daily for 28 days.
Studies suggest that PEP may be up to 80% effective in preventing an HIV seroconversion if the antiretroviral drugs are taken correctly with a high level of adherence. For PEP to be effective, the prophylaxis must be started as soon as possible after the exposure, but no more than 72 hours.

What is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill taken by individuals, who are HIV-negative, before they are potentially exposed to HIV. PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99% when taken consistently.

Is PrEP Affordable for my Patient?

PrEP is covered by health insurance plans including Medi-Cal and Medicare. If your patient is on either of these health insurance plans, the prescription will not require pre-authorization. The majority of private health insurance plans include PrEP in their formulary, although costs to the patient will vary by plan and insurance provider.
Patient assistance programs are available to patients on private health insurance plans which can assist with co-pay and deductibles.

Where can I Receive more Guidance on Services Related to PrEP/PEP?

Get PrEP LA
PrEP Guidelines for LA County - Updated Oct. 2022
PEP and PrEP Action Kit for Providers - Feb. 2017
PrEP/PEP Billing Codes - Feb. 2017
Preparing Providers for Effective HIV Intervention: 5 Step to Get Prepared for PrEP - Feb. 2016
CDC 2021 PrEP Updated Clinical Practice Guidelines - Dec. 8, 2021
CDC 2021 Clinicians' Quick Guide - Updated Jan. 2022
CDC 2021 PrEP Clinical Providers' Supplement - Updated Jan. 2022
Clinicians seeking advice and consultation on PrEP can call the hotline at 855 HIV PrEP (855-448-7737). For more information on the services offered through the PrEP-line, visit the national Clinician Consultation Center website.
National Phone Consultation Center warmline - (888) 448-4911 (9a.m. - 2 a.m. EST, 7 days a week)
PEP Clinical Consultation Center at UCSF
AETC National Resource Center

Are you interested in providing PEP and/or PrEP at your practice but need training or technical assistance to do so?

If you do not currently offer PEP or PrEP, and would like to explore the feasibility of doing so, please fill out this form: PEP/PrEP Provider Technical Assistance Request

Division of HIV and STD Programs