We offer same day appointments
for our patients.
Call us at 413-420-2200
to learn more.
Our mission at the Holyoke Health Center is to "Improve the health of our patients through affordable, quality health care and comprehensive community-based programs to create a healthy community."
PrEP & PEP for HIV Prevention
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) is a medication for people without HIV who are at very high risk for contracting HIV from sex or injection drug use. If the PrEP medication is used as prescribed, it is highly effective for preventing HIV.
Is PrEP right for you? You should consider taking PrEP if you test negative for HIV and you:
- Have had anal or vaginal sex and you:
- have a sexual partner living with HIV
- Have not consistently used a condom or other barrier methods
- Have been diagnosed with an STI in the past
- Inject drugs and you:
- Have an injection partner living with HIV
- Share needles or equipment to inject drugs
Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV Prevention
Post-exposure prophylaxis (or PEP) is a medication for people who've been or may have been exposed to HIV. In emergency situations, PEP is taken within 72 hours (3 days) after possible exposure. PEP is for people who have tested negative for HIV but have been exposed. Start PEP as soon as possible after exposure to give it the best change of working.
PEP is for people who don't have HIV, but may have been exposed:
- during sex
- at work through a needlestick or other injury*
- by sharing needles or injection drug equipment
*If you are exposed at work through a needlestick or other injury, please report to your employer or visit the nearest Emergency Department.
How do I get PrEP & PEP?
PrEP and PEP are available with a prescription in our pharmacies at both our Holyoke and Chicopee locations. Visit our Center for Recovery & Support or talk to your provider about how to get a prescription for these medications.
Please bring your insurance information with you to your appointment - if you do not have insurance, we have Certified Application Counselors who are available to assist you with Insurance Enrollment. Holyoke Health Center provides medical, dental and pharmacy services to all of our patients, regardless of your ability to pay for them.
For more information about PrEP or PEP, or help on deciding which medication is right for you, please call the Center for Recovery & Support.