California lawmaker Scott Wiener put forward a bill that would permit people to get PrEP from their local pharmacies without needing a doctor’s prescription. In doing so, the Democratic state senator stressed the need for more people to have access to this drug that can avert HIV.
Gov. Gavin Newsom shares Wiener’s point of view. This week, Newsom signed off on S.B. 339, marking a turning point for California residents.
Going forward, insurers and healthcare providers will have to cover the expenses associated with PrEP orders and other pharmacist services connected to the drug. School districts and localities that incur costs as a result of new changes will also receive reimbursement from the state of California.
Other means of safeguarding against HIV
While prophylaxis – both preexposure and postexposure – remains well-documented as an effective means of preventing HIV, other worthwhile methods exist.
For starters, sexually active individuals should make certain they use condoms during intercourse. Regardless of one’s sexual activity, anyone who injects drugs into their body should also ensure they only use sterile syringes and needles.
