PREP

HeyDenver provides free PrEP Navigation. This page contains information about:

what PrEP/PeP is
what PrEP Navigation is
who it’s for
and so much more!

Ready to get started? Contact a PrEP Navigator or fill out the interest form!

Bilingual (English/Spanish) PrEP Navigator

Manuel Melendez: (970) 260-9454 (call or text)

Manuel.Melendez@coloradohealthnetwork.org

What is prep?

PrEP is short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP has been shown to be up to 99% effective at preventing sexual transmission of HIV, and up to 74% effective at preventing HIV transmission through injection drug use when taken as prescribed. It works by preventing HIV from replicating within your cells, meaning the virus cannot establish an infection. There are currently four options for PrEP in the United States:

A medical provider can help determine which option will work best for you.

First approved for PrEP in 2012, Truvada is recommended for all populations.
First approved for PrEP in 2018, Descovy is recommended for cisgender men and transgender women only at this time.
The generic formulation of Truvada has been available since 2020 and is recommended for all populations.
First approved for PrEP in 2021, Apretude is the first long-acting injectable for PrEP and is recommended for all populations.

What’s prep navigation?

PrEP Navigation is a process where a PrEP Navigator assists you with accessing PrEP! More about the process is explained below.

During your appointment, your PrEP Navigator will provide information about what PrEP is, how it works, how to cover the cost, and where to get it.
If your PrEP Navigator recommends applying to assistance programs, they will assist you with completing any applications.
Once your applications for assistance programs are approved, your PrEP Navigator will help you choose a medical provider to see for PrEP care.
Once your appointment with a medical provider is made, all that’s left to do is attend your appointment!

is prep for me?

If you are HIV negative and feel you are at risk for acquiring HIV, PrEP is likely a good fit for you! Some things that may put you at higher risk for acquiring HIV include:

Having multiple sex partners
Having a sex partner living with HIV with a detectable viral load
Inconsistent condom use
A history of other sexually transmitted infections
You or your sexual partner use injection drugs

For more information please visit the CDC’s website about HIV here.

how do i pay for it?

There are several options that can assist with paying for PrEP regardless of your insurance or residency status.

Private insurance: Insurance companies were recently mandated by the federal government to cover the entire cost of at least one option for PrEP, including the associated medical visits and lab work. If you are insured through one of these routes, your out-of-pocket cost should be $0!
Medicaid: The cost of PrEP should be very low for those enrolled in Medicaid in Colorado. Copays for the medical visit, labs, and medication should not exceed about $5.
Uninsured: The state of Colorado has a program called the Public Health Intervention Program, often abbreviated as PHIP, that help cover the cost of your medical visit, lab work, and medication copays.
Kaiser, Tricare, or Medicare: Each of these programs have specific requirements for accessing PrEP. Please contact your medical provider or a PrEP Coordinator for assistance.

Paying for PrEP may seem complicated, but a PrEP Coordinator can assist with finding the best option for you.

PrEP Resource Bank

Want more information about PrEP? Click the link for our Resource Bank, which breaks down specific topics about PrEP.

What is pep?

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a short course of medication prescribed by a medical provider that can be taken after a possible exposure to HIV.

PEP should be used only in emergency situations and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV.

HEYDENVER DOES NOT OFFER PEP.

If you think you’ve recently been exposed to HIV then please visit one of the below resources for immediate care.

CHN has PEP onsite at our main office and we can even have one of our navigators help you to find financial aid programs to help you get onto PEP.
303-962-5317
Denver Health is able to offer clients PEP services to residents of the county of Denver, and they can help you to enroll in financial programs to help you pay for PEP.
303-602-3540
With 9 locations and extended hours you can visit any American Family Urgent Care for PEP. They do not have navigators so have a talk with them about cost and if they take your insurance.
303-300-1000