How to Get PrEP for Free in New Orleans in 2026
Orleans Parish is an Ending the HIV Epidemic priority jurisdiction, and New Orleans has one of the highest per-capita HIV rates in the South. But the city's PrEP infrastructure is anchored by CrescentCare — Louisiana's largest AIDS Service Organization and an FQHC that provides comprehensive, affirming healthcare for the entire community. Between CrescentCare, Louisiana's Medicaid expansion, and telehealth PrEP, New Orleanians have strong pathways to $0 PrEP. Here's every option.
TL;DR
Three main free PrEP pathways in New Orleans: CrescentCare (FQHC, LGBTQ+ focused, PrEP navigation, sliding-scale, free testing); Healthy Louisiana / Medicaid (PrEP covered as preventive service); and telehealth PrEP (free statewide, no clinic visit). CrescentCare provides PrEP navigation to help with financial assistance enrollment. Gilead Advancing Access covers medication for uninsured patients under 500% FPL.
New Orleans's HIV landscape
Orleans Parish is an EHE priority jurisdiction with one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the Gulf South. Black and Latino communities bear a disproportionate share of new diagnoses. CrescentCare — formerly the NO/AIDS Task Force — has 33+ years of service and coordinates community-level prevention through its Wellness Center, No Wrap No Tap program (serving the Black community), and the New Orleans Syringe Access Program (NOSAP).
Three main pathways to free PrEP in New Orleans
PrEP is covered at $0 under the ACA. Use the Gilead Co-Pay Coupon (1-877-505-6986) for any remaining costs.
Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016. PrEP is covered as a preventive service. Enroll at ldh.la.gov/healthylouisiana or call 1-888-342-6207.
CrescentCare is an FQHC serving patients on sliding-scale basis regardless of insurance. PrEP Navigators help enroll in Gilead Advancing Access, Medicaid, and other assistance programs. Most uninsured patients pay $0.
Free PrEP delivered to your New Orleans address — consultation, labs, and medication at $0. No clinic visit required.
New Orleans-area providers to know
CrescentCare — Canal Street
Louisiana's largest AIDS Service Organization and a comprehensive FQHC. Primary care, PrEP, dental, behavioral health, HIV/STI testing, PrEP navigation, case management, and Medicaid enrollment. Sliding-scale fees — serves everyone regardless of insurance. Free rapid HIV and take-home testing. Wellness Center for MSM and transgender communities.
CrescentCare — Elysian Fields
Second CrescentCare location offering the same comprehensive services. PrEP, testing, and PrEP navigation available.
LSU Sexual Health Program (via CrescentCare partnership)
CrescentCare partners with the LSU Sexual Health Program for comprehensive sexual wellness services including STI testing and treatment. Accessed through CrescentCare locations.
State-level programs and links
New Orleans residents benefit from Louisiana's PrEP infrastructure. For state-level programs, eligibility details, and statewide resources, see our Louisiana PrEP guide or the complete state-by-state directory.
Healthy Louisiana (Medicaid): Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016. PrEP is covered as a preventive service. CrescentCare can assist with enrollment on-site.
Special populations in New Orleans
If you're undocumented: CrescentCare serves patients regardless of immigration status as an FQHC. Gilead Advancing Access does not require SSN. MISTR is available without documentation.
If you're a minor: Louisiana allows minors age 16+ to consent to certain medical treatment. CrescentCare can advise on consent requirements for younger patients. Contact them directly.
If you're transgender: CrescentCare's mission explicitly centers LGBTQ+ inclusive care. Their Wellness Center provides targeted services for MSM and transgender communities.
Syringe services: CrescentCare operates NOSAP (New Orleans Syringe Access Program) offering free sterile syringes, Narcan, fentanyl/xylazine test strips, wound care, and referrals to recovery services.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get free PrEP in New Orleans without insurance?
Yes. CrescentCare is an FQHC that serves patients on a sliding scale regardless of insurance — most uninsured patients pay $0 for PrEP. MISTR delivers free telehealth PrEP statewide. Gilead Advancing Access provides free medication for eligible uninsured patients.
Does Louisiana Medicaid cover PrEP?
Yes. Healthy Louisiana (Louisiana Medicaid) covers PrEP as a preventive service. Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016. Enroll at ldh.la.gov/healthylouisiana or get help from CrescentCare.
What services does CrescentCare provide besides PrEP?
CrescentCare is a full FQHC offering primary medical care, dental, behavioral health, HIV care, case management, food pantry, home-delivered meals, housing assistance, peer support, legal services, Medicaid enrollment, and syringe access services.
Related guides
Information sourced from state and county health departments, CDC, NASTAD, AIDSVu, and verified provider websites. Last updated October 6, 2026.
FreePrEP.org is an independent public health resource. We maintain editorial independence from providers, affiliates, and potential sponsors. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about PrEP.