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Medical Essentials provides specialized care for HIV and other STDs, offering advanced testing and HIV counseling services in Florida. Our expert team ensures early detection, effective management, and access to preventive options like PrEP, empowering you to take control of your health.

We provide advanced care in these specialized areas of care:

Prevention

Behavioral interventions have been proven effective in reducing the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. Providing individuals with the right information, motivation, and practical skills is essential in empowering them to make safer choices and lower their risk.

HIV testing plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of the virus. When individuals know their status, they are more likely to adopt protective measures to safeguard both themselves and their partners.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention method that involves taking a once-daily pill. When used consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV transmission by 99%, making it a powerful option for HIV-negative individuals at risk through sex or injection drug use.

  • PrEP is a once-daily pill for HIV prevention.
  • It is 99% effective in preventing HIV when taken correctly.
  • Routine testing is required for continued PrEP use.
  • PrEP is available for HIV-negative individuals of any gender or sexual orientation who are at risk or concerned about contracting HIV.

At Medical Essentials, we provide PrEP prescriptions and comprehensive HIV prevention services to support your long-term health and well-being.

Comprehensive HIV and STI Testing

Regular testing is essential for early detection and effective treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Our confidential and accurate screenings provide fast results, ensuring you receive the care and support you need for your health and well-being. Read more info below:

HIV Testing: We offer confidential, rapid HIV testing with fast and accurate results. Using a small blood sample from a fingertip prick, we provide results within 10-20 minutes. If a test returns Reactive or Preliminary Positive, we conduct a confirmatory blood test to ensure accuracy. This sample is sent to a certified laboratory to screen for HIV antibodies, ensuring reliable diagnosis and appropriate next steps.

STI Testing: At Medical Essentials, we provide comprehensive Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) screenings to support your sexual health. Our testing includes Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, offering early detection and timely treatment options for a healthier future.

Receive Treatment

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a short-term HIV treatment taken immediately after potential exposure to reduce the risk of infection. To be effective, it must be started as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of exposure.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication for individuals who test negative for HIV but may be at risk of exposure. Taken daily, it significantly lowers the chances of contracting HIV; however, it requires a prescription. If you believe PrEP is right for you, contact us for guidance.

We also provide effective treatment for all known sexually transmitted infections (STIs) using antibiotics. Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C can be successfully treated, but we recommend follow-up testing after completing treatment to confirm the infection is cleared.

Trained and Certified Counselors

Understanding and accepting an HIV or STI/STD diagnosis can be a difficult journey, but support makes all the difference. Our certified counselors provide confidential guidance, emotional support, and access to resources tailored to your needs. Regardless of financial circumstances, we ensure every patient receives the care and assistance necessary to manage their health.

Follow-Up

The support for Me* patients continues beyond active treatment, ensuring long-term well-being.

To improve health outcomes, we prioritize ongoing care by guiding patients through their treatment plans, including regular testing and medication adherence.

Engaging in follow-up care with Me* empowers survivors as they reintegrate into daily life, providing reassurance and stability.

Maintaining a strong medical support system is vital for both physical recovery and emotional well-being, promoting a healthier future.

Understanding PrEP and What to Expect

PrEP is designed for individuals who are HIV-negative and seeking to prevent infection. Before starting your prescription, an HIV screening and additional lab tests are required. To continue using PrEP safely, routine testing every three months is necessary. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Community Assistance

Our Community Assistance program ensures individuals receive the support and resources needed for HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. We provide education, outreach, and access to essential services, helping to reduce barriers to care. Through compassionate guidance and community partnerships, we empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.

To schedule a consultation or get some counseling, please click the button below. [Schedule a Consultation]

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get tested for HIV?
The CDC recommends that everyone between 13-64 years old get tested at least once. Those with higher risks, such as individuals with multiple sexual partners, people who inject drugs, or those with an HIV-positive partner, should be tested more frequently. Pregnant individuals should also get tested to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
What types of HIV tests are available?
HIV testing includes rapid antibody tests, antigen/antibody tests, and nucleic acid tests (NATs). Rapid tests provide results within minutes, while laboratory tests may take a few days. Some tests detect recent infections sooner than others.
What are the symptoms of early HIV infection?
Early HIV symptoms, if present, may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, rash, muscle aches, and fatigue. These symptoms resemble flu-like illnesses and often resolve within weeks. Some people do not experience symptoms at all.
Can HIV be cured?
There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus. With consistent treatment, people with HIV can achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning they cannot transmit the virus sexually (Undetectable = Untransmittable, or U=U).
Is HIV only spread through sexual contact?
No, HIV can also be transmitted through sharing needles, mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding, and, rarely, through blood transfusions (though screening has made this very rare). It is not spread through casual contact, saliva, or insect bites.
What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to HIV?
If you believe you’ve been exposed, seek medical attention immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a medication that can prevent HIV infection if taken within 72 hours of exposure. The sooner it is started, the more effective it is.
Can I live a normal life with HIV?
Yes, with proper treatment, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. Advances in HIV care mean that individuals on effective ART have normal life expectancies and can maintain relationships, work, and have families while managing their condition.

Let Us Guide You Toward a Healthier Future

From testing and treatment to preventive care, we provide compassionate, reliable healthcare tailored to you. Let our expert team guide you toward a healthier future.

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Prioritize Your Health Today

Your well-being matters, and we’re here to support your journey. Get tested, receive treatment, and take control of your health. Contact us today for expert care.

Comprehensive HIV Testing & Treatment for Lifelong Wellness