PrEP Care

Two options, total peace of mind. Spectrum Medical has your HIV prevention plan covered with both PrEP options: a daily pill AND a twice-yearly injection.

A bearded man in a striped shirt pours liquid into his hand in a well-lit bathroom surrounded by lush green plants. The space features white subway tiles, a window allowing natural light, and a cozy orange-and-white checkered shower curtain, creating a warm and serene atmosphere.

Reduce Your Risk of HIV Transmission by Up to 99%

PrEP, which stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a highly effective HIV prevention tool that helps stop HIV infection from taking hold in the body when taken as prescribed.

Since its introduction in 2012, PrEP has continued to evolve with new prevention options designed to fit different lifestyles and healthcare needs. Today, PrEP is available as a daily oral pill, a bi-monthly injectable option called Apretude, and a twice-yearly injectable option called YEZTUGO.

These advances are helping make HIV prevention more personalized, convenient, and accessible than ever before. Whether you prefer a daily routine or longer-acting prevention options, there are now more choices available to help you stay protected and take control of your sexual health.

PrEP Navigation Team

  • AJ Dominguez
    Navigation Program Manager

    I am committed to supporting underserved communities facing challenges such as substance use, homelessness, undocumented status, and HCV/HIV prevention and education. My aim is to make a positive difference for those often overlooked and in need of assistance.

    About me
  • malcom progam navigator
    Malcom Love
    Program Navigator

    Malcom is a PrEP Navigator at Spectrum Medical, where he supports individuals in accessing HIV prevention services and navigating care. He is a trained Sexual Health Facilitator through UUJAZ and holds certifications through HealthHIV and the National HIV Curriculum. His work focuses on community outreach, patient support, and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions.

    About me
  • Joshua Hitchcock's profile picture
    Joshua Hitchcock
    Program Navigator

    I am passionate about advancing sexual health through sex-positive, stigma-free care. With a background in community outreach, HIV testing, PrEP navigation, and treatment linkage, I support individuals, especially those from marginalized communities, in accessing prevention and care. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) navigator, I strive to create inclusive spaces where people feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health.

    About me
Dr. Vanig smiles warmly in the Spectrum Medical offices.

Is PrEP the right choice for you?

Anyone who is sexually active and HIV-negative can benefit from either form of PrEP. Spectrum’s excellent medical care team can help you decide if PrEP is a good fit for you and which course of treatment would be best for your lifestyle. It’s important to note that PrEP does not guard against other STIs, and having an active STI can increase the risk of contracting HIV.

Looking for Injectable PrEP?

You’re in the right place. Spectrum Medical offers injectable PrEP options designed to provide highly effective HIV prevention without the need for a daily pill.

Today, injectable PrEP includes options like Apretude, a bi-monthly injection, and YEZTUGO, the first twice-yearly injectable form of PrEP. These longer-acting prevention options may be a good fit for people looking for more discretion, less frequent dosing, or an alternative to daily medication routines.

Connect with Spectrum Medical to speak with a qualified provider about your HIV prevention options and which injectable PrEP plan may be right for you.

  • How does PrEP work?

    PrEP utilizes antiretrovirals, the same medications used to fight HIV. This method involves “preloading” the body with these drugs before potential exposure to the virus. By doing so, PrEP helps prevent HIV from replicating, thereby stopping it from establishing an infection if you are exposed.

  • What are the key differences between the daily pill and injectable PrEP options?

    Choosing the right PrEP option comes down to your personal preferences, lifestyle, and healthcare needs. Daily oral PrEP is a highly effective option for many people who prefer a daily routine. Injectable PrEP options offer longer-lasting protection without the need to take a pill every day.

    Apretude is a bi-monthly injectable PrEP option administered every two months after the initial loading doses, while YEZTUGO is administered just twice a year. Some patients prefer injectable options because they offer more discretion, reduce the burden of daily medication, or better fit their schedules and routines.

    The best HIV prevention plan is the one that works best for you. A qualified Spectrum Medical provider can help you explore your options and determine the right fit for your needs.

  • I’m interested in starting on PrEP or switching types. What’s the next step to get started?

    Starting or switching PrEP medications is a relatively straightforward process that the Spectrum Medical team is happy to explore with you. As part of your initial assessment, we’ll provide an HIV test, discuss exposure risks, and screen for STIs and kidney functionality. Then, a provider will work with you to decide the best medication option for you.

    Reach out to us if you’d like to make an appointment to learn more about PrEP.

  • How long does it take for PrEP to reach maximum protection?

    Protection timelines vary by PrEP type and possible pathways to exposure. For receptive anal sex, daily PrEP pills reach maximum protection after about 7 days of consistent use. For receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use, it takes about 21 days. Your Spectrum Medical provider will discuss timing with you during your visit.

  • What does the follow-up schedule look like for PrEP?

    Follow-up schedules can vary depending on the type of PrEP you’re using and your individual healthcare needs. Regardless of the prevention option you choose, routine STI testing is generally recommended every three months to help support your overall sexual health.

    Most patients will also continue seeing their provider every three to six months for ongoing monitoring, HIV testing, and follow-up care. You and your provider will work together to determine the schedule that makes the most sense for your prevention plan and lifestyle.

  • Can I still go to Spectrum Medical for PrEP support if I live somewhere else than Phoenix?

    Yes! We are proud to provide PrEP services to patients throughout Arizona. If you live in the valley including Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Glendale, Gilbert, Chandler, Surprise or another location and want to start PrEP at Spectrum Medical, give us a call at (602) 604-9500 to find a time that works well for your schedule.