Know your Status: Free HIV Self-Test Kits Available & New York State Leads in PrEP Access
Today, June 27th, is National HIV Testing Day, and the New York State Department of Health urges everyone to get tested and understand their HIV status. Knowing your status is the crucial first step in connecting to the HIV care continuum, allowing individuals to access prevention tools and, if needed, treatment.Those at higher risk for HIV can benefit from preventative measures like Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), alongside consistent condom use and other support services.
“Understanding your HIV status is a vital component of both prevention and treatment, empowering individuals to proactively manage their sexual health,” stated State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.”On National HIV testing Day,I encourage everyone to prioritize learning their status and engage in open conversations with their partners and healthcare providers.”
Convenient and private HIV self-test kits are now available. Individuals can determine their eligibility for a free kit to be mailed directly to their home by clicking here.
PrEP is a highly effective medication that prevents HIV infection and supports overall sexual health for New Yorkers at risk. It’s a safe, affordable, and proven method to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV.
New York State currently has the highest number of individuals nationwide prescribed PrEP medication relative to the population estimated to benefit from it.
However, despite PrEP’s effectiveness, access varies significantly across different communities. Research indicates that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, young men who have sex with men, transgender and cisgender women, and individuals under 40 are accessing PrEP at lower rates compared to their White counterparts. Simultaneously, thes same groups are experiencing an increase in new HIV diagnoses.
The Department’s AIDS Institute is actively collaborating with community organizations and healthcare providers to develop strategies that ensure equitable PrEP access throughout the state. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the costs associated with PrEP.Furthermore, the Department offers a PrEP Assistance Program (PrEP-AP) to cover clinical visits and lab testing for individuals without insurance. More facts on PrEP-AP and other financial assistance options is available here.
Find a testing location near you by visiting the AIDS Institute’s Provider Directory or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s HIV test locator.
For more information about the AIDS Institute and HIV, please visit health.ny.gov.
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