Recently I wanted to go back on PrEP but couldn't get an appointment through my primary care or in-network.

The experience was a little janky, but knowing what I learned, here's the best way to go about it:

1. Get an at-home HIV rapid test, such as OraQuick [Walmart][CVS][Target].
2. Go to GoodRx and find a coupon code for generic Truvada a pharmacy near you. Typically, Walmart and grocery stores are better than CVS or Walgreens.
3. Go to PlushCare and sign up for a 30-day trial and an online appointment for PrEP.

The reasoning is that you will not get prescribed PrEP unless you have a recent negative HIV test, and even generic Truvada is very expensive. The first pharmacy I had the prescription sent to, even with a coupon, would charge over $550.00 for a 30-day supply, whereas the pharmacy I ended up transferring it to charges $81.00 for a 90-day supply (not a typo - more than a 20x difference).

All told, I got an appointment and a 90-day supply in a couple hours for about $200.

Labels: health, hiv, insurance, spending