Stop AIDS and HIV and doctor concept. Red ribbon on heart with LGBT pride flag in clinic

HIV Prevention for the LGBTQ+ Community

June 9, 2025

At Novus, we believe that everyone deserves access to affirming, informed, and compassionate care, especially when it comes to HIV care and prevention. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, HIV prevention isn’t just about medical services; it’s about dignity, visibility, and health equity.

Whether you’re just starting to learn about HIV or looking for the best options for prevention, we’re here to support you with the information and care you need to feel safe, empowered, and in control of your health.

Why HIV Prevention Matters

While HIV can affect anyone, LGBTQ+ individuals, predominantly gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, as well as transgender women, continue to face a disproportionate burden of new HIV cases. Factors like stigma, discrimination, limited access to affirming healthcare, and systemic barriers all contribute to these disparities.

At Novus, we are committed to closing these gaps by providing education, prevention tools, and services tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals and their unique health needs.

HIV Prevention Tools That Work

Here are some of the most effective, evidence-based tools we use to help prevent HIV:

1. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP is a once-daily pill or long-acting injectable medication that can reduce your risk of getting HIV by up to 99% when taken as prescribed. It’s a game-changer for HIV prevention and is available at all Novus locations, including via Tele-PrEP for those who prefer care from home.

2. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PEP is an emergency medication you take after a potential HIV exposure, ideally within 72 hours. It’s a critical option for anyone who believes they may have been exposed.

3. Condoms and Safer Sex Practices

Using condoms consistently and correctly is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Practicing safer sex, including open communication with partners, using protection, and getting tested regularly, helps protect your health and the health of those you care about. Safe sex is smart sex, and it’s a key part of any HIV prevention strategy.

4. Routine HIV Testing

Knowing your status is an empowering step in taking control of your health. Regular HIV testing is recommended for sexually active individuals and is available free and confidentially at all Novus locations.

Find Inclusive, Compassionate HIV Care at Novus in Pennsylvania

We know that many LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced stigma in healthcare settings. That’s why we’ve built Novus to be the opposite—affirming, inclusive, and centered on you.

From gender-affirming providers to respectful intake processes, our team is trained to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ patients with empathy and understanding. Whether you need HIV testing, PrEP, STI screenings, or ongoing care, we’re here to help.

Ready to get started with our HIV care services? Find a Novus location near you or schedule an appointment today.