NOHO — Planned Parenthood will begin offering the HIV prevention medication known as PrEP at its Bleecker Street location starting Aug. 8.
PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a treatment plan for people who do not yet have HIV but are at risk of contracting the virus. It involves taking a pill called Truvada once a day and has been shown to reduce the risk of contracting HIV by more than 90 percent.
"PrEP is an important tool in the prevention of HIV transmission and PPNYC is thrilled to begin offering PrEP as part of our comprehensive health care services,” said Joan Malin, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of New York City, in a statement.
Truvada contains two medications known as antiretrovirals which block HIV's ability to take root and grow in a body after a person is exposed to the virus.
According to Planned Parenthood, there are more than 110,000 people in New York City living with HIV — nearly five times the national rate and twice the rate in New York State. Women of color are disproportionately at risk of contracting the virus, the nonprofit said.
The medication is covered by Medicaid and most insurance policies, and Planned Parenthood can help people without insurance, or with inadequate insurance, with payment plans.
The clinic will continue to provide affordable and free HIV testing and education programs as well, Malin said.
Planned Parenthood aims to offer the medication at all five of its health centers — one in every borough — by the end of this year. They will also be offering vasectomies and transgender hormonal therapy by the end of the year, a spokeswoman said.
Appointments at the health center at 26 Bleecker St. are available starting Aug. 8 and can be made by calling 212-965-7000 or 800-230-7526.
