Accessing PrEP

Once you’ve learned about PrEP and have determined that it is in an HIV prevention option you’re interested in, there are a few important steps you will need to take before you’re able to access it. This section provides an overview of each of these steps, in the following order:

Accessing PrEP Coverage (and a Prescriber): There are a number of ways people in Alberta can access PrEP coverage. The coverage option you use (i.e. Alberta Health, Non-Insured Health Benefits, private insurer) can impact which healthcare provider you can access a prescription from. Therefore, we start with this section.

Baseline Screening: Once you determine how you will access PrEP coverage and find the appropriate healthcare provider, you will need to undergo a series of initial tests before receiving a prescription. An overview of these tests and why they’re important is included in this section.

Picking Up Your Medication: Once you’ve received your prescription, it’s time to pick it up from a pharmacy. Unfortunately, not all pharmacies are familiar with PrEP or keep it in stock. This section provides tips to make accessing your medication from a pharmacy easier.

Now that you have your PrEP prescription, it’s time to learn more about what you need to know while on PrEP. Click the button below to learn more.

The information on this website is primarily based on the Alberta PrEP guidelines. Where information differs from what is presented in these guidelines, links to alternate sources are provided. This information has been reviewed by community members, community-based organizations, and healthcare providers to ensure it is accurate and accessible for communities who would benefit most from PrEP. If you feel any information is inaccurate, out-of-date, or inaccessible, please do not hesitate to contact connect@ourhealthyeg.ca.

This site is intended for educational purposes only. It is intended to be accessible and is not an exhaustive resource. Any medical decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.