How to prepare for a video visit about HIV Testing & PrEP Consultation

Audience: adult

Preparing for a video visit about HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) consultation can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will discuss your risk factors, explain HIV testing options, and talk about PrEP as a way to prevent HIV infection. To prepare, gather your medical history, any questions you have, and ensure you have a private, quiet space with a stable internet connection. This visit is a chance to learn about HIV prevention and testing, but it is not a substitute for in-person exams or emergency care. If you experience symptoms like fever, severe rash, or difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical attention. Telemedicine can effectively provide education, counseling, and prescription of PrEP when appropriate, but it cannot perform physical exams or urgent testing. Being prepared helps you communicate clearly and receive personalized advice for your health needs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever with rash or swollen lymph nodes — seek urgent medical care.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain during or after PrEP use — get emergency help immediately.
• Severe allergic reaction signs like swelling of face or throat — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing HIV risk factors and prevention strategies.
• Providing education about HIV testing options and PrEP.
• Prescribing PrEP when appropriate after assessment.
• Answering questions about medication use and side effects.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments and lab tests.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or collecting blood samples.
• Diagnosing acute illnesses or complications requiring urgent care.
• Managing severe side effects or allergic reactions.
• Providing immediate emergency treatment.

What to expect during your video visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your sexual health, lifestyle, and any symptoms you might have. They will explain different HIV testing methods and discuss whether PrEP is right for you. You can ask questions about risks, side effects, and how to take PrEP if prescribed.

How to prepare for your appointment

Before your visit, find a quiet, private place with good internet. Write down your medical history, current medications, and any questions. Have your ID and insurance information ready if needed. Testing may require a follow-up visit or local lab work.

Understanding HIV testing and PrEP

HIV tests detect the virus or antibodies in your blood or saliva. PrEP is a daily medicine that can lower your chance of getting HIV if taken as directed. Your provider will explain benefits, risks, and monitoring needed during PrEP use.

When to seek in-person care

If you have symptoms like fever, rash, swollen glands, or flu-like illness, you may need physical exams or urgent testing. Also, if you experience side effects from medications or have other health concerns, an in-person visit may be necessary.

Privacy and technology tips

Use a secure device and a private internet connection. Close other apps to avoid distractions. Test your camera and microphone before the visit to ensure clear communication.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection.
• Charge your device and test camera and microphone.
• Prepare a list of your current medications and medical history.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have your ID and health insurance information available if needed.
• Ensure you have a way to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule recommended lab tests or in-person visits if advised.
• Start PrEP medication as prescribed, if applicable.
• Monitor for side effects and report any concerns promptly.
• Maintain regular follow-up appointments to review your health and medication.
• Practice safe behaviors to reduce HIV risk.

FAQs

What types of HIV tests might be discussed during the visit?

Your provider may talk about antibody tests, antigen/antibody combination tests, or nucleic acid tests (NAT). These tests detect HIV in different ways and have varying windows for accuracy.

How soon can I start PrEP after the consultation?

If PrEP is appropriate for you, your provider may prescribe it during the visit or after lab tests confirm it is safe. Starting times can vary depending on your health and test results.

Can I get tested for HIV during the video visit?

The video visit allows discussion and counseling, but HIV testing usually requires a lab or home test kit. Your provider can guide you on how and where to get tested.

What if I have side effects from PrEP?

Common side effects are mild and often improve over time. If you experience severe symptoms like allergic reactions or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately and inform your provider.

Is my privacy protected during the video visit?

Healthcare providers use secure platforms to protect your privacy. Ensure you are in a private space and use a secure internet connection to maintain confidentiality.

Sources

1. HIV Testing and Prevention — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) — National Institutes of Health (NIH) HIVinfo.
3. HIV/AIDS — World Health Organization (WHO).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention.