HIV prevention to be offered by GPs in ground-breaking PrEP pilot
Lewisham Council is working with The Lewisham Care Partnership (TLCP) to deliver a community pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) clinic that is fully embedded in general practice.
The 12-month pilot aims to increase the uptake of PrEP in underrepresented communities by raising awareness, improving access and reducing HIV stigma.
As of Tuesday 1 July, anyone who lives in Lewisham can be prescribed PrEP from St John’s Medical Centre, 56-60 Loampit Hill, SE13 7SX.
The clinic will operate every Tuesday between 9am and 12pm.
Previously only available through dedicated sexual health clinics, PrEP is prescribed to HIV-negative people who may be at risk of HIV through sex or intravenous drug use. It is extremely effective at preventing transmissions.
Cllr Paul Bell, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:
“It’s fantastic to be given the opportunity to take part in this groundbreaking pilot, which will make HIV prevention medication more easily available to more of our residents.
“We’re proud to be delivering this innovative service that will not only help reduce the transmission of HIV but also help tackle health inequality in the borough.”
Dr Michael Uti, Managing Partner of TLCP, said:
“The TLCP is extremely proud to be involved in this collaborative initiative. We believe this new primary care PrEP service will go a long way in increasing health equity and inclusive care.
“We’re paving the way to a future where prevention is power and access is for all.”
The new PrEP clinic will offer a wide range of services to ensure comprehensive and accessible HIV prevention care including:
- PrEP prescription and management: Provide consultations and prescribe PrEP tailored to individual needs.
- HIV testing and screening: Conduct regular HIV tests to ensure users are HIV-negative before starting and while using PrEP.
- Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing: Screen for other STIs and offer treatment or referrals.
- Education and counselling: Educate patients on how PrEP works, its effectiveness, and address any concerns or misconceptions.
- Monitoring and follow-up: Offer routine check-ups to monitor health, adherence, and side effects.
- Risk assessments: Help patients understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about PrEP.
- Sexual health support: Provide broader sexual health advice and resources to empower individuals in managing their overall health.
To make an appointment with the PrEP clinic, visit the website or call: 020 8692 1354.