Paying for PrEP without breaking the bank

There’s a lot of misinformation circulating around the internet and in conversations about PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis), the single-daily dose of Truvada, once only used to treat those living with HIV, but now available and approved by the FDA to prevent new HIV infections in negative individuals. PrEP has proven to be more than 90 percent effective in clinical trials when taken as prescribed, although doctors still encourage condomn use for PrEP users. That’s great. But paying for PrEP, whether you’re insured or not, can be a stressful and expensive experience.Georgia Voice is here to provide you with some basic information about how you can get access to and pay for PrEP. This is by no means a comprehensive list. And of course, you’ll want to consult your health care provider before beginning any drug regimen.

For the uninsured

Gilead’s Medication Assistance Program:

Gilead provides assistance for uninfected individuals who are eligible and who cannot afford to pay for TRUVADA for PrEP. To learn about eligibility, contact Gilead’s U.S. Medication Assistance Program at 855-330-5479 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Eastern). Applicants must provide proof of income and residency, and must meet federal poverty level requirements.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) Program: This program is designed to help uninsured Americans get the prescription medicines they need at no or low cost.

You can find out if you are eligible by calling 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) or by visiting the PPA Web site, www.pparx.org.

NeedyMeds Drug Discount Card:

 An iPhone and Android app that helps you locate the 63,000-plus pharmacies nationwide that accept the NeedyMeds Drug Discount Card. Users can save up to 80 percent on the cost of prescriptions at participating pharmacies.

Medicaid and Medicare:

Call 877-267-2323 to determine eligibility.

Veterans Affairs:

Call 877-222-838 to determine eligibility.

For the insured

The Gilead Co-pay Coupon Card:

The Gilead Co-pay Coupon Card may be able to help you save on your Truvada for PrEP co-pay. For more information, visit www.Gilead-CoPay.com or call 877-505-6986