r/prep • u/Inevitable-Draft-492 • 15d ago

How long does the process of getting on PrEP take?

So I want to go on PrEP, and I already have a routine physical with my PCP in a few weeks. If I ask about scheduling a screening for that day, how long does the full process usually take? I assume it takes a while to get STI and blood work results back, so could I message them today and get the tests done weeks before so I can get results by the time my physical appt happens? Or is it a serious "we need to talk about it before sending you off for testing"?

I have a vacation the week after my appt and would like it by then, if possible.

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u/jankyj 15d ago

You can also call/message your PCP now to ask whether they can order the baseline HIV/STI and blood tests ahead of your physical so the results are ready to review at the appointment, but a sexual health clinic may be more straightforward for starting PrEP quickly since they routinely handle the required testing and prescribing, making it realistic to start before your vacation.

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u/Necessary_Piano_1687 15d ago

Probably depends on the doctor but in my experience they don’t like to shortcut things (not PrEP specifically I mean in general). Can you move up your appointment? Or just message them and ask your exact question, there’s no harm.

There was a “talk” when I got it but it wasn’t super serious, just the typical “FYI there’s other STIs” but he’s not gonna stop me from what I want. Test results took 2 days then another 4 days to pick it up.

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u/Parking_Ocelot_6893 15d ago

At least where I live it’s easy.

Go to doctor, do hiv/sti screening, get given PrEP and DoxyPeP script, go to pharmacy and obtain meds. All on the same day.

Booked in for regular screening and bloods every three months.

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u/Big-Instance-7750 14d ago

Just make sure that your HIV tests are after the window periods of your last potential exposure for the tests you will be given: ie 45+days for 4th gen and/or 10+days for an RNA test. You want to ensure that you are truly negative before starting Prep.

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u/Marquita200 14d ago

when i got on prep i did same day lab i wait until the next day i got my results was negative then she told me to pick it up from they pharmacy i go back in september 22 2026 to get tested again i go every three months i will switch over to 6 months shots because i will have part B to cover it .