A Retrospective Review of HIV PrEP Offer and Uptake in an Australian Metropolitan Sexual Health Centre

Introduction: There is little data on offer and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention on the ground.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the offer and uptake rates of PrEP in a metropolitan sexual health centre, among individuals at high risk for HIV infection. This can improve service delivery and uptake of HIV prevention.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted among clients with a positive diagnosis of rectal gonorrhoea, rectal chlamydia, or infectious syphilis between 1 July to 31 December 2018, to ascertain what percentage were offered PrEP, and of those, what percentage took up PrEP.

Results: Of 72 eligible males, 50 (69.4%) were offered PrEP. Of these, 29 (58%) took up PrEP, while 21 (42%) did not. Those who declined often wanted time to consider, did not make an appointment, or declined due to side effects.

Conclusion: There is an acceptable PrEP offer rate which can be increased by training and enhanced documentation. More than half of eligible clients offered PrEP took it up, which is essential for HIV prevention. Patient education on PrEP and text reminders may increase PrEP uptake.