What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for HIV Testing & PrEP Consultation

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for HIV testing and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) consultation, you will usually receive instructions on how to get tested and how to take PrEP if it is recommended. The healthcare provider may order lab tests to check your HIV status and other health factors. You might get a prescription for PrEP medication if you are at risk for HIV. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to review test results and adjust treatment if needed. It's important to keep all appointments and take medications as directed to stay healthy. If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Telemedicine makes it easier to get care but does not replace in-person visits when urgent or complex problems arise.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever or chills after your visit — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe allergic reaction signs such as swelling of face, lips, or difficulty breathing — call emergency services.
• New or worsening chest pain or difficulty breathing — get urgent in-person medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing HIV risk and prevention options.
• Ordering and explaining HIV testing procedures.
• Prescribing and managing PrEP medication with routine follow-up.
• Providing counseling and education about HIV and PrEP.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or managing acute medical emergencies.
• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Administering injectable medications or vaccines.
• Handling complex medical conditions requiring immediate in-person evaluation.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider may arrange for you to have an HIV test. This might be done at a local clinic, lab, or with a home testing kit. They will explain how to get the test and when to expect results. If PrEP is suggested, you may receive a prescription and instructions on how to take it safely.

Understanding Your Test Results

Once your HIV test results are ready, your provider will discuss them with you, often through another telemedicine appointment or phone call. If the test is negative and you are eligible, you may start or continue PrEP to help prevent HIV infection. If the test is positive, your provider will guide you to get further care and support.

Taking PrEP Medication Safely

If prescribed PrEP, it is important to take the medication exactly as directed. You will need regular follow-up visits to monitor your health and check for side effects. Your provider will also test you for HIV and other infections regularly while you are on PrEP.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience symptoms like fever, severe rash, difficulty breathing, or other serious problems, you should seek in-person medical care immediately. Telemedicine is helpful for routine follow-up but cannot replace urgent or emergency care.

Keeping Your Information Private

Your privacy is important. Telemedicine visits are confidential, but be sure to use a private space and secure internet connection for your appointments. Ask your provider if you have questions about privacy and data security.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet place with a good internet connection for your telemedicine visit.
• Have a list of your current medications and any allergies ready to share.
• Prepare any questions you have about HIV testing or PrEP.
• Know where you can go for lab testing if ordered by your provider.
• Ensure a device with a camera and microphone is charged and working.

After your tele-visit

• Complete any lab tests ordered by your provider as soon as possible.
• Follow instructions for taking PrEP medication if prescribed.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits.
• Report any side effects or new symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Maintain safe practices to reduce HIV risk, such as using condoms and avoiding sharing needles.

FAQs

What is PrEP and how does it help prevent HIV?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a daily medicine that people at risk for HIV can take to lower their chances of getting infected. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is very effective at preventing HIV.

How soon will I get my HIV test results after the telemedicine visit?

The timing depends on the type of test and where you get it done. Some tests give results in minutes, while others may take a few days. Your healthcare provider will explain how and when you will receive your results.

Can I start PrEP before my HIV test results come back?

Usually, providers want to confirm you do not have HIV before starting PrEP. However, in some cases, they may start it while waiting for results if they assess the risk is high and tests are negative so far.

What should I do if I miss a dose of PrEP?

Try to take your medication as close to the usual time as possible. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up doses. Talk to your provider if you miss several doses.

Is telemedicine safe for discussing sensitive topics like HIV?

Yes, telemedicine is designed to be private and confidential. Make sure you are in a private place during your visit and use secure internet connections to protect your information.

Sources

1. HIV Basics: PrEP — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. HIV Testing — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) — National Institutes of Health (NIH) HIVinfo.
4. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can help with many aspects of HIV testing and PrEP consultation but does not replace in-person evaluation when urgent or complex health issues arise. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and seek emergency care if you experience serious symptoms.