Phoenix Children’s Phoenix Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Access Project provides HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis to youth ages 13 to 24. PrEP is the use of a daily anti-HIV medication that keeps HIV negative individuals from becoming infected. When taken consistently, PrEP has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection in people who are at high risk by up to 92%, especially when used in combination with condoms and other HIV prevention methods. PrEP is approved by the FDA for use in youth 13 years and older and has been shown to be safe and effective. Most private and state public plans cover PrEP and patients may be eligible to receive copay assistance from the medication manufacturer or patient advocacy programs.
The Phoenix PrEP Access Project is also currently enrolling patients in a research study evaluating the delivery of PrEP to youth under and over 18 years of age. Study participants receive assistance with determining insurance eligibility options for copay assistance, and/or free medication. To be eligible for the study, youth must be between ages 13 to 24 years and engaging in behaviors that put them at risk for becoming HIV infected. Consent from a parent or guardian is required for unemancipated youth under age 18 to participate in the study. Participation in the study is purely voluntary and youth can receive PrEP without participating in the study if they or their parents or guardians choose not to do so.
The Phoenix PrEP Access Project is a partnership between Phoenix Children Bill Holt Pediatric HIV Clinic, Section of Adolescent Medicine and Homeless Youth Outreach programs and its community partners.
To schedule an appointment and/or to participate in the study, please contact 602-933-0955.