Life Kit: Health Some patients face hurdles getting PrEP. Here's what to know
Jan 29, 2026
Zach Dyer, a KFF Health News reporter covering health policy, walks through common hurdles getting PrEP and how to navigate them. He describes billing nightmares and wrong codes. He talks about providers who lack PrEP knowledge and where to find queer-aware clinicians. He outlines insurance coverage rules, appeals, telehealth and online PrEP alternatives.
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Providers Often Lack PrEP Knowledge
- Many primary care providers lack confidence in queer health and PrEP, so patients often educate their own doctors.
- This knowledge gap creates a burdensome extra task for patients seeking HIV prevention.
Patient Bills And Ignorant Doctor Nearly Ended PrEP
- Matthew Hurley almost stopped PrEP after getting scary, incorrect medical bills and meeting a doctor who didn't know what PrEP was.
- Hurley switched providers and regained stable access after finding someone informed about PrEP.
Find Queer-Competent, PrEP-Savvy Providers
- Do search for clinicians experienced in queer health using directories like Glamour's LGBTQ+ healthcare list.
- Find providers who also know how to correctly bill insurance for PrEP to avoid billing errors.