PREP DURING THE PANDEMIC;AN AUDIT OF HIV AND RENAL FUNCTION TESTING

ABSTRACT

Introduction BHIVA guidelines recommend that those prescribed pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have 3-monthly HIV testing and appropriate monitoring of renal function. The aim of this audit was to assess if these tests were being reliably completed, despite restricted access to Sexual Health Services during COVID restrictions. Methods Service-users prescribed ongoing PrEP June-August 2021 were identified via the electronic patient record (EPR). Those initiating PrEP were excluded. It was noted whether an HIV test result was recorded at time of prescription (or within 4 weeks), and if renal function was performed as per recommendations. STI diagnoses were noted. Results 82 PrEP-users were included. 31% used postal testing and 69% had tests in clinic. 95% had an HIV test within 4 weeks of PrEP prescription (87% of those using postal kits and 94% of those performing tests in clinic). No one missed renal function testing when required. STI rates were low. Discussion Whilst remote delivery of many services, including PrEP, will be retained beyond COVID restrictions, it is vital that those accessing PrEP also engage with testing and other health promotion activities. This audit has reassuringly demonstrated that those prescribed PrEP during this period had appropriate HIV and renal function follow-up (whether in-person or by post). Most not testing were low-risk due to behaviour change during COVID restrictions. When designing future PrEP delivery, we plan to perform a re-audit (during a period of no restrictions), and learn from the literature and other services how to ensure PrEP-users engage with testing despite a reduction in face-to-face services.