Sussex launches new online HIV medication service

"Cultural taboos" or "time-consuming journeys" can stop some people from accessing medicine, said an NHS consultant

A new online HIV medication service has been launched in East Sussex.

The pilot will offer preventative PrEP medicine over the internet to people at risk from the virus, rather than through face-to-face services.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a pill that can stop HIV taking hold and spreading throughout the body. It is given to those at risk of getting the immunodeficiency virus through sex or drug use.

More than 1,1000 people could benefit from the treatment, according to East Sussex Public Health.

Darrell Gale, director of public health for East Sussex, said he was "delighted" to make it "even easier" for at-risk residents to access the medicine.

It is "nearly 100 per cent effective" when taken properly, he said.

“People’s work lifestyles, caring responsibilities and stigma can be a real barrier to using traditional face-to-face health services", Mr Gale added.

People can receive the medicine within two weeks, after taking the online assessment and passing the relevant tests and health checks.

"We are excited to see the results of the pilot and how this innovative model can be used by others nationally and internationally to help... end HIV transmission occurring in England by 2030," said Mr Gale.