Online telemedicine platform helps connect patients with PrEP
Texas Health Action (THA), a nonprofit dedicated to advancing sexual wellness in Texas, is expanding access to HIV prevention medication across the state through a partnership with MISTR, an online telemedicine company. The online partnership that launched today provides patients with no-cost virtual visits, HIV testing and HIV prevention medication known as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) with little to no out-of-pocket costs to patients, including individuals in rural areas of the state where services may not be available.
The MISTR platform was originally designed for men who have sex with men (MSM), but the company also launched the platform SISTR earlier this month. THA is partnering with both platforms to provide preventative care in a safe and supportive environment from the comfort of home.
“This innovative partnership allows us to quickly expand HIV prevention through PrEP across the state,” Christopher Hamilton, chief executive officer of THA, said. “The demand for sexual health services is increasing all the time, and brick-and-mortar healthcare delivery can’t keep up.”
Patients can access a licensed physician who specializes in HIV preventative care through the MISTR and SISTR platforms. After the completion of lab work, PrEP is delivered directly to patients.
“PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV, but unfortunately PrEP is not utilized as much as it should be,” Tristan Schukraft, president and CEO of MISTR, said. “We hope this partnership will allow even more people to access this vital component in the fight against HIV.”
For patients who are uninsured or under-insured, the partnership will assist in navigating medication costs through patient assistance programs with little to no out-of-pocket costs for medication. For patients who test positive for HIV or other STIs, THA will connect patients to care through local providers or Kind Clinic programs.
To book an appointment, visit MISTR (747.999.6249) or SISTR (747.999.6247).
