Document Type
Presentation
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Publication Date
3-31-2023
Abstract
This scoping review examines the challenges people in the United States encounter in obtaining post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and to explore how pharmacists might improve access to care. Within seventy-two hours of exposure, patients should undergo PEP from a healthcare facility to prevent HIV virus from replicating after a potential exposure. Even though many pharmacies have extended hours, people in thirty-seven US states cannot acquire PEP in their neighborhood pharmacy and should visit one of the three Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggested places. Receiving timely care is further complicated by a lack of healthcare personnel across the United States. The purpose of the review is to identify these barriers and investigate how pharmacists can improve access to PEP, especially in rural areas and locations where there is a healthcare professional shortage. Previous studies have demonstrated that pharmacists can play a significant role in ensuring HIV preventative care accessibility by attempting to lessen stigma, raising awareness of PEP's accessibility, and including pharmacists in the HIV preventative care continuum. The goal of the study is to learn more about the sociocultural barriers that keep people from obtaining HIV preventative care. The review also emphasizes the possible negative effects of delaying PEP, such as immunosuppression and other medical issues and lessen the health disparities experienced by underserved groups.
Recommended Citation
Christopher, Cara, "Opportunities for Pharmacist Intervention: Exploring Barriers to Accessing HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in the United States" (2023). Master of Public Health Capstone Presentations. Presentation 486.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/mphcapstone_presentation/486
Language
English
Comments
Presentation: 6:36
Poster attached as supplemental file below