PrEP is a safe and effective medication that prevents the transmission of HIV. But only 9,113 of 24,900 Massachusetts residents at high risk for HIV have been prescribed PrEP¹. Massachusetts must do better to end the HIV pandemic.

An Act enabling pharmacists to prescribe, dispense and administer PrEP (SB 1353/HB 2225) will help our most vulnerable populations quickly get PrEP by allowing pharmacists to dispense a 60-day supply without a prior prescription once every two years for those facing barriers to care. The Department of Public Health is required to issue rules to establish statewide drug protocols for dispensing PrEP. The bill also requires pharmacists to provide counseling regarding the ongoing use of PrEP and will improve access to care by requiring pharmacists to link customers to medical care for ongoing PrEP oversight and other vital health needs.

This bill passed the Senate in the 2021-2022 session. Similar legislation has been passed in California, Colorado, Maine, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Virginia.

The legislation is sponsored by Senator Julian Cyr and Representative Jack Lewis.

What is PrEP?

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a simple, safe, and effective daily pill that reduces the risk of HIV transmission by close to 100%. Learn more about PrEP and how GLAD is working to expand access to this game-changing medication.