If you’re looking for a PrEP doctor in south east Melbourne, Mediclinic in Clayton South can help. We prescribe HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as part of our Sexual Health in Practice (SHIP) clinic. We are a GP Partner of the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC).
Need PEP now? PEP must be started within 72 hours of a possible exposure to HIV, and the sooner the better. If our clinic is closed, or you can’t get an appointment in time, go to a hospital emergency department or call the PEP hotline on 1800 889 887. Do not wait for us to reopen.
What is PrEP?
PrEP is medication taken by a person who does not have HIV, to lower their chance of getting HIV. When it’s taken as prescribed, it is very effective at preventing HIV. It does not protect against other STIs, so regular sexual health testing is still part of PrEP care.
PrEP may suit you if you have a higher chance of HIV exposure, for example:
- you have condomless sex with partners whose HIV status you don’t know
- your partner is living with HIV and does not have an undetectable viral load
- you’ve recently had an STI, or have needed PEP before
- you share injecting equipment
Your practitioner will talk through your situation and help you decide if PrEP is right for you. Suitability is assessed individually.
Getting PrEP from a PrEP doctor in south east Melbourne
Book a SHIP appointment
Book a “Sexual Health In Practice – Face to Face – New Patient Initial Appointment” online at /book/, or call (03) 9544 1555.
Assessment and tests
A nurse takes your history first. Then your practitioner discusses PrEP with you. Before you start, you’ll need tests, including an HIV test and other blood and urine tests. These help make sure PrEP is safe for you.
Start your prescription
If PrEP is suitable, your practitioner writes your prescription. They also explain how to take it and what side effects to watch for.
Regular reviews
PrEP involves regular check-ups, usually every few months. These include repeat HIV and STI testing and checks on how your kidneys are going. Book your reviews ahead of time so your prescription doesn’t run out.
PrEP prescriptions are available from our GPs. Our Nurse Practitioner Vara Perikala also offers HIV PrEP prescriptions, along with other sexual health care.
What is PEP?
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a course of HIV medication taken after a possible exposure to HIV. It may help if you’ve had condomless sex, a condom broke, or you’ve shared injecting equipment. The course usually lasts four weeks.
Timing is critical. PEP must be started within 72 hours of the exposure, and it works best when started as soon as possible.
- During clinic hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm): call us on (03) 9544 1555 straight away and tell reception it’s about PEP, so your call can be triaged. We are appointment-only.
- Outside clinic hours, or if we can’t see you in time: go to a hospital emergency department or call the PEP hotline on 1800 889 887. See our after-hours page for more options.
After PEP, you’ll need follow-up HIV and STI testing. Many people who need PEP go on to talk with their practitioner about PrEP.
Fees
PrEP and PEP appointments are booked as SHIP appointments. Face-to-face SHIP appointments have a private fee, and a Medicare rebate is available. Telephone results reviews are bulk billed. Fees are at your practitioner’s discretion. PrEP medication itself is listed on the PBS, so you pay the usual pharmacy charge for your prescription. See our fees page for consultation fees.
How quickly do I need to start PEP?
PEP must be started within 72 hours of a possible exposure to HIV, and the sooner the better. If we’re closed or can’t see you in time, go to a hospital emergency department or call the PEP hotline on 1800 889 887.
Do I need a referral to get PrEP?
No. You can book a SHIP appointment directly online or by calling (03) 9544 1555.
What tests do I need before starting PrEP?
You’ll need an HIV test, plus other tests that can include STI screening, hepatitis B and kidney function. Your practitioner will explain which tests you need. Australian Clinical Labs collects pathology onsite.
How often do I need check-ups on PrEP?
Usually every few months. Each review includes repeat HIV and STI testing and other monitoring, and your prescription is renewed if PrEP is still suitable for you.
Can a Nurse Practitioner prescribe PrEP?
Yes. Our Nurse Practitioner Vara Perikala offers HIV PrEP prescriptions, and our GPs prescribe PrEP too.
Does PrEP protect against other STIs?
No. PrEP lowers the chance of HIV only. Condoms and regular testing help protect against other STIs.