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

Audience: pediatric

Preparing for a video visit about HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can help you get the most from your appointment. HIV testing checks if someone has the virus that causes AIDS. PrEP is a medicine that can help prevent HIV infection if taken as prescribed. During the video visit, a healthcare provider will talk with you about your health, risks, and answer your questions. They may guide you on how to get tested and discuss if PrEP is right for you. It’s important to have a private, quiet space for the visit and to gather any health information or questions beforehand. Remember, telemedicine visits are a helpful step but do not replace in-person care when needed. If you notice any urgent symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If you develop a high fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, seek urgent medical care.
• If you experience severe side effects from any medication, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
• If you have been exposed to HIV recently (within 72 hours), seek emergency care for possible post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing HIV risk factors and prevention options.
• Providing education about HIV testing and PrEP.
• Answering questions about medication use and side effects.
• Guiding you on how to get tested locally or through home testing kits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or collecting blood samples.
• Diagnosing acute HIV infection or other illnesses needing lab tests.
• Managing severe symptoms or emergencies.
• Prescribing medications without proper in-person assessment when required.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history, any possible exposures to HIV, and your lifestyle to understand your risk. They will explain how HIV testing works and discuss if PrEP might be a good option for you. You may also talk about how to take PrEP safely and the importance of regular follow-up visits.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Find a quiet, private place with good internet connection. Have your questions ready and any health information, like past test results or medicines you take. Make sure your device’s camera and microphone work well. If you need a parent or guardian to join, arrange this ahead of time.

Understanding HIV Testing

HIV tests typically use a blood or saliva sample to check for the virus or antibodies. Results may take minutes to days depending on the test. Testing is confidential and helps you know your status so you can take care of your health.

What is PrEP and Who Should Consider It?

PrEP is a daily medicine that helps prevent HIV infection. It is often recommended for people at higher risk, such as those with an HIV-positive partner or who have multiple sexual partners. Your provider will explain how to take it and the importance of regular testing while on PrEP.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you have symptoms like fever, rash, swollen glands, or feel very unwell, you should see a healthcare provider in person. Also, if you have questions that need physical exams or lab tests, an in-person visit may be necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet space with good internet connection.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone beforehand.
• Write down any questions or concerns you have.
• Have a list of current medications and health history ready.
• Arrange for a parent or guardian to join if needed and allowed.
• Know how to access the telemedicine platform or app.

After your tele-visit

• Follow instructions given by your healthcare provider about testing or medication.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Report any side effects or new symptoms promptly.
• Keep a record of your test results and treatment plan.
• Maintain healthy practices to reduce HIV risk.
• Reach out for support if you have questions after the visit.

FAQs

What is PrEP and how does it work?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a daily medicine that helps prevent HIV infection by stopping the virus from establishing infection if exposed. It is most effective when taken every day as prescribed.

Can I get HIV tested at home?

Yes, some HIV tests can be done at home using kits that collect saliva or blood samples. Your healthcare provider can guide you on how to use these and interpret results.

Is the video visit confidential?

Yes, telemedicine visits are designed to protect your privacy and confidentiality. Make sure you are in a private space and using a secure internet connection.

What if I test positive for HIV?

If your test is positive, your provider will discuss next steps, including confirmatory testing and treatment options. Early treatment helps people live healthy lives.

Do I need to take PrEP forever?

PrEP is taken as long as you are at risk for HIV. Your healthcare provider will help decide how long you should continue based on your situation.

Sources

1. HIV Testing and Counseling — 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 concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.