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The HIV epidemic remains one of the biggest public health challenges of our time. Despite significant progress in preventing and treating HIV, there are still millions of people living with the virus and new infections continue to occur every day, including Ohio residents.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is an incredible tool to prevent HIV, offering protection with just one pill a day -- but for many Ohioans living in diverse urban and rural areas, accessing PrEP medication and HIV care can be challenging. Lack of knowledge about where to get PrEP, how to pay for it, and which doctor to consult are common obstacles people face.

At Central Outreach Wellness Center, we’re working to change that. Our PrEP clinic offers free or low-cost HIV prevention medication, along with comprehensive health services and support for those living with HIV in our community.

We strive to break down barriers and make it easier for people to access this life-saving prevention tool. Here's what every Ohioan should know about HIV in our state and the options available to you for preventing it:

HIV in Ohio: Important Information

Despite significant progress in the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, the disease remains a public health concern in Ohio. The latest survey conducted by the Ohio Department of Health's HIV/AIDS Surveillance Program provides the following statistics:

  • In 2021, there were 912 new HIV diagnoses reported in Ohio.
  • Sexual contact between men accounted for the most common transmission category among males in Ohio (59%). Gay and bisexual men typically face the highest risk of contracting HIV nationwide.
  • Injection drug use represents the second most prevalent known transmission category among both men (7%) and women (19%) in Ohio.

This survey offers a more detailed breakdown of these statistics, considering factors such as race, age, and other variables, to provide a comprehensive understanding of HIV in Ohio.

HIV Treatment Options in Ohio

Although there is currently no cure for HIV, advancements in medication have made it a manageable chronic condition. People living with HIV can take daily antiretroviral therapy (ART) to control the virus and prevent it from progressing into AIDS or causing other health complications. At Central Outreach Wellness Center, we offer comprehensive services for those living with HIV, including access to affordable ART and support for managing the condition.

Dr. Stacy Lane, D.O., our founding physician, has dedicated her career to HIV care and treatment, inspired early on by the loss of her uncle. Specializing in HIV and infectious diseases, she has committed herself to delivering compassionate and respectful care throughout Ohio and Southwestern PA. As a frontline practitioner in HIV management, she ensures that our HIV-positive patients receive the highest level of care.

Our goal is to ensure that everyone in Ohio, regardless of their location or financial situation, can access essential HIV treatment and prevention services. We offer both PrEP medications and HIV medicine free of cost, with or without prescription drug coverage.

The Importance of PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is currently the most vital tool available for HIV prevention. By taking a daily pill, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV sexually transmitted infections. Studies have shown that when used as directed, taking PrEP can provide up to 99% protection against HIV infection. This means that even individuals currently at risk due to factors like injection drug use or engaging in sexual activity with HIV-positive partners can greatly reduce their risk of getting HIV and stay safe.

Preventing HIV With PrEP Online

At Central Outreach Wellness Center, one of our top goals is to smash the barriers preventing Ohioans from accessing essential HIV services and medication. As a result, we created PrEP2Me, a service that provides online access to PrEP.

Obtaining your PrEP prescription online offers an easy and convenient way to access the medication you need to stay protected in Ohio. Here's why:

  • Easier Access to PrEP Online

    In the past, obtaining a PrEP prescription often involved multiple clinic visits and in-person consultations, which presented barriers for individuals residing in rural or remote areas of Ohio. With PrEP2Me, all you require is an internet connection to receive care and conveniently access your medication. Our discreet delivery service ensures that your privacy remains intact.

  • Ensured Supply of Medication

    Consistency in taking the daily PrEP pill is crucial for its effectiveness. With PrEP2Me, we guarantee that you will always have an adequate supply of daily PrEP by sending regular shipments well in advance before you run out.

  • No Health Insurance? No Problem

    While most health insurance plans cover PrEP, not everyone has insurance coverage. Affordability can be a challenge for many Ohioans seeking PrEP due to out-of-pocket costs.

Get HIV Support & PrEP in Columbus, Ohio

At Central Outreach Wellness Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive, culturally competent, and judgment-free HIV prevention and treatment services to all those in need. If you have any questions about HIV or PrEP, or if you would like to get started at our Columbus clinic, please don't hesitate. Schedule your first appointment with us today.