Crawford Recognizes National PrEP Day, Calls for Greater Access to HIV Prevention

CHICAGO – State Rep. Mike Crawford, D-Chicago, is recognizing National PrEP Day on Oct. 10 and reaffirming the importance of expanding access to HIV prevention services for communities across Illinois.

“Access to PrEP should not depend on someone’s insurance status or ability to pay,” said Rep. Michael Crawford. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to protect their health and make informed decisions about their future. As we recognize National PrEP Day, we must continue working to remove barriers to HIV prevention medications and make sure lifesaving resources are accessible to everyone who needs them.”

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP, is a medication that can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring HIV when taken as prescribed, reducing the risk of transmission by up to 99 percent. MISTR, the largest LGBTQ+ sexual health telehealth provider in the United States, is marking the second annual National PrEP Day by working to connect 10,000 new patients across the country with PrEP, regardless of insurance status. MISTR provides PrEP at no cost to eligible patients through insurance billing and patient assistance programs, helping address financial barriers that can prevent people from accessing HIV prevention medication.

“Ending HIV will require continued investment, education and a commitment to making prevention accessible to all communities,” Crawford said. “National PrEP Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about a powerful tool in the fight against HIV and to remind Illinoisans that prevention, education and access to care can save lives.”

Crawford encourages Illinois residents to learn more about PrEP, discuss HIV prevention options with a health care provider and take advantage of available resources.