The integration of a PrEP Clinic and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at the PRONTO! peer-led HIV point-of-care testing service, have been welcomed by Burnet Institute Associate Professor Mark Stoové.

Clients can now book online for a consultation with a GP on the basics of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP), a highly effective HIV-prevention method where HIV-negative people take HIV medication to reduce their risk of contracting HIV.

As well as the PrEP Clinic, PRONTO! is introducing Medicare-rebatable STI testing for the first time, with tests for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis now offered as part of a standard appointment for rapid HIV testing.

Head of Burnet’s HIV/STI Research Group, Associate Professor Stoové said the expansion of PRONTO!’s services is a natural progression and meets important needs.

“This is a fantastic and much needed innovation for PRONTO!,” Associate Professor Stoové said.

“Our evaluation of the service during the trial period indicated a unambiguous need to integrate STI testing with rapid HIV testing.

“With the addition of a PrEP Clinic, PRONTO! now represents a world-leading model for community-based and accessible sexual health care for gay men.”

Based in the inner-Melbourne suburb of Fitzroy, PRONTO! is a collaboration between Burnet and the Victorian AIDS Council/Gay Men’s Health Centre.

To find out more, visit pronto.org.au.