The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication to individuals at risk of exposure to HIV.

 Taking PrEP daily reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 70-90%. Individuals taking PrEP should also continue to use other proven prevention strategies.

 Program service hours and location:

 8 -11 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m.
83 Pondella Road
North Fort Myers, FL 33903

Program highlights:

  • Patients requesting PrEP services are evaluated in our clinic, and if appropriate, may receive immediate access to PrEP medications. Evaluation services include:
    • Client education
    • HIV test
    • HCV test
    • Liver function test
    • Prescription of PrEP medication
  • Consideration is given to every patient based on their eligibility requirements, which include financial status.
  • Once approved, patients will have a 3-month follow-up that includes:
    • Assessment and monitoring their HIV status
    • Evaluate adherence to PrEP medication
    • Determine need to continue PrEP
    • Review of side effects
    • Education on prevention

 For more information about the DOH-Lee PrEP program, please call 239-461-6100.

Non-Occupational Post-Exposure Profylaxis (nPEP)

nPEP is a medical intervention designed to prevent HIV infection after exposure to the virus.  nPEP must be started within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure.

If you think you have recently been exposed to HIV, please call 239-461-6100.

 Find more information visiting the Florida Department of Health  PrEP/PEP page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PrEP?
  • PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.
  • It is one pill taken once a day, every day, or an injection every two months to help reduce your HIV risk.
  • PrEP works best when used with condoms. Condoms should always be used.
  • You must be HIV-negative before you start taking PrEP medicine.
  • Some people may experience nausea, gas, or headaches. These symptoms often go away within a few days.
Should I take PrEP?

PrEP is not for everyone. If you answer “yes” to any of the statements below, PrEP may be right for you.

  • You have HIV-positive partner(s) or partner(s) of unknown HIV status
  • You ever have sex without condoms
  • You have or had a sexually transmitted infection like syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea in the past 6 months
  • You or your partners has exchanged sex for drugs, food, money, or housing
  • You or your partner inject drugs
Who should not take PrEP?
  • People who are HIV positive or people who do not know their HIV status
  • People who lack the ability to take daily PrEP medicine
  • People with a history or kidney or liver problems
  • People who have chronic Hepatitis B without ongoing monitoring of the infection
How do I pay for PrEP?

PrEP is covered by most insurance carriers. Prior authorization may be required.

If your insurance does not cover PrEP or you do not have insurance, a counselor will assist you with applying for the Patient Assistance Program (PAP).