Find out if PrEP is right for you and if you qualify for free coverage!
What is PrEP?
- A daily pill for people who are HIV-negative
- It stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
PrEP is a very effective way to protect yourself from HIV. For example, what if you’re having condomless sex with someone who is HIV-positive? Or, what if the condom breaks? What if you're sharing a needle with someone who is HIV-positive? Or what if you don’t know your partner’s status? If you’re taking PrEP and exposed to HIV, your chances of getting HIV are extremely low.
Please note: While PrEP is very effective for preventing HIV, it does not prevent any other sexually transmitted infections.
Coverage for Indigenous Peoples
PrEP is available at no cost for Indigenous folks who are covered by the federal non-insured health benefits program (for Status First Nations and Inuit peoples) who identify as:
- Men who are gay, bisexual or have sex with men
- Trans men, women and gender diverse individuals
- Someone whose partner is HIV-positive and does not have viral suppression
- Someone who shares injection drug equipment with someone who is HIV-positive and doesn’t have viral suppression
In addition, all Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples) within British Columbia are covered for PrEP.
Even if you don’t feel included in the categories above, you may still be eligible to receive PrEP at no cost. Talk to your healthcare professional to see if PrEP is a good option for you and if you qualify!
How do I get PrEP?
The first step is talking to a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner. An HIV test and other blood tests are needed before receiving a prescription. For tips on how to approach your doctor, please check out the PrEP Step by Step Toolkit we developed for guys in BC.
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