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Providing access to Orlando PrEP medications is one way the Harmony Healthcare team cares for our community. Learn more about who we are and why we do what we do.
When our founders saw the growing need in our community for accessible healthcare options, Harmony Healthcare was born! We know that sometimes visiting the doctor’s office for a test or treatment can be intimidating, so we wanted to have an environment that was welcoming and understanding.
Our mission is to provide our patients with the necessary resources to take charge of their health. One way we do this is with our no-cost Orlando PrEP medications.
What is PrEP?
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication taken daily to help prevent HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP is highly effective at stopping HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body when used as directed.
PrEP prescriptions are designed for HIV-negative individuals who are at risk of getting HIV. It’s time to talk to your Orlando PrEP healthcare provider about your options if you fall into any of these categories:
- Your sex partner has HIV
- You don’t always use condoms
- You’ve been diagnosed with an STI in the last six months
- You’re HIV-negative and share needles or other drug injection equipment
- You have a drug-injecting partner with HIV
How Do You Start Taking PrEP?
If you think you are a good candidate for Orlando PrEP medications, talk to your healthcare provider about a PrEP prescription. If you do not have a healthcare provider, come see us! Our team would love to meet you and see how we can help you be proactive with your healthcare. We can prescribe PrEP for you and make sure you know how to use it correctly.
Before starting PrEP, you’ll need to take an HIV test to ensure you are HIV-negative. Once you’ve started taking PrEP, you’ll need to visit your healthcare provider routinely for follow-up visits, HIV screenings, and medication refills. If your test comes back reactive (positive), we can guide you through your treatment options. Don’t worry; plenty of people live their best lives with HIV, so a positive test is not as scary as it sounds!
When Can You Stop Taking PrEP?
With approval of your healthcare provider, you can stop taking Orlando PrEP medications if:
- Your risk of getting HIV becomes low because of changes you’ve made in your daily life
- You aren’t taking your pills regularly
- You’re unable to visit your healthcare provider for check-ups and refills
- You have unwanted side effects from the medication
It’s important that you understand the possible side effects of PrEP and never stop taking it without the approval of your healthcare provider. If it’s tough for you to make it into our office, we offer a convenient telehealth option accessible through an app on your phone or computer.
PrEP FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Can I take PrEP if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes, PrEP is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can help protect both you and your baby from HIV transmission during these critical periods. Check with your healthcare provider to be sure.
Do I still need to use condoms if I’m on PrEP?
While PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unwanted pregnancies. Using condoms adds an extra layer of protection.
How long does it take for PrEP to become effective?
PrEP reaches maximum protection for receptive anal sex after about seven days of daily use and for vaginal sex and injection drug use after about 21 days.
What happens if I miss a dose of PrEP?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Missing a single dose occasionally is unlikely to affect overall protection, but consistency is key for maintaining effectiveness.
Is PrEP only for people who are sexually active?
No, PrEP is also recommended for individuals who inject drugs or share needles, providing protection from HIV transmission through blood exposure.
Healthcare Beyond Orlando PrEP Medications
When you visit our teams in our Orlando, Kissimmee, or Tampa offices, you’ll see that we provide a welcoming environment designed to help you take care of all your healthcare needs, including:
- No-cost STI testing
- Hepatitis C treatment
- HIV medical care
- PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) treatment
- Gender Affirming Care (Orlando)
- Primary Care (Orlando)
- Wellness Exams (Orlando)
- And don’t forget the free condoms!
Stop By Harmony Healthcare Today!
Our mission extends beyond providing medical care to our community. We aim to assist our patients in accessing resources beyond the doctor’s office, including transportation services, food resources, public assistance, employment assistance, and financial aid.
Our Case Management team collaborates with patients to create a plan that prioritizes their needs, overcomes obstacles to receiving care, and connects them with appropriate services.
When you’re ready to take charge of your health, we’re ready to lock arms with you! Contact any of our locations (Orlando, Kissimmee, or Tampa) or stop by and say hello! We look forward to meeting you!
