Arlington Public Health now prescribes PrEP at its Sequoia Plaza clinic on a sliding fee scale. No insurance or Arlington address needed. Hours and how to book.
Arlington Public Health now prescribes PrEP, a daily pill that helps HIV-negative people avoid getting HIV. It is offered at the county’s sexual health clinic on a sliding fee scale. Patients do not need health insurance or an Arlington address.
The county’s Department of Human Services announced the new service on Tuesday. Taken as prescribed, PrEP is up to 99% effective at preventing HIV from sex, the county said.
“PrEP is one of the most effective tools available to prevent HIV,” said Dr. Deidra D. Parrish, the county’s health director. She said “many people who could benefit from it still face barriers to access.”
What the clinic offers
The county said PrEP patients get:
- daily oral PrEP, using generic Truvada
- HIV and STI testing
- prevention counseling
- same-day medication pickup, for eligible patients
- ongoing monitoring and follow-up care
- links to other sexual health services
Doctors can refer patients, and people can also refer themselves.
Who can go, and what it costs
The service is open to anyone who wants extra protection from HIV, especially people at higher risk, the county said. It is available regardless of where you live, your immigration status or whether you have insurance.
Fees follow a sliding scale based on income. Eligible patients may pay a reduced fee or nothing. The county has not published a price list.
“We want community members to know that PrEP is available and accessible,” said Lilibeth Grandas, nursing supervisor for the county’s HIV/STD prevention program.
Where and when
The clinic is at Sequoia Plaza, 2100 Washington Blvd., on the second floor. It sees patients by appointment only, according to the county’s STI clinic page:
| Days | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday and Thursday | 3 to 5:20 p.m. |
| Tuesday and Wednesday | 8 to 10:20 a.m. |
Appointments are usually available within two business days, and sometimes the same day. Bring a photo ID, an insurance card if you have one and proof of household income if you have it.
What it means for you
- If you think PrEP could be right for you, call 703-228-7444 to book. You do not need a doctor’s referral.
- Cost should not stop you. Uninsured, low-income patients can get free screening and treatment for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV, the clinic page says.
- You do not have to live in Arlington. People from Falls Church, about four miles west, Alexandria, about four miles south, and the rest of the region can use the clinic too.
- The clinic also offers hepatitis B, HPV and mpox vaccines.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get PrEP in Arlington County?
At the Arlington Public Health STI clinic, Sequoia Plaza, 2100 Washington Blvd., second floor. Call 703-228-7444 for an appointment.
Do I need insurance to get PrEP from Arlington Public Health?
No. The clinic charges on a sliding fee scale based on income, and eligible patients may pay a reduced fee or nothing. You do not have to live in Arlington, and immigration status does not matter.
What are the Arlington STI clinic’s hours?
By appointment only: 3 to 5:20 p.m. Monday and Thursday, and 8 to 10:20 a.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. Appointments are usually available within two business days.
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