Free PrEP in Raleigh-Durham
North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023 — the most significant PrEP access improvement in a Southern state in years. Wake County saw 161 new HIV diagnoses in 2024, up 13.3% from 2023. The Research Triangle has growing HIV burden among Hispanic/Latino communities (30/100K in 2024, up from 27) and stark poverty correlation: 29/100K in high-poverty areas vs 7.8 in lowest-poverty areas. Q Care Plus via Triad Health Project offers completely free statewide TelePrEP for all 100 NC counties.
HIV at a Glance
Wake County: 161 new diagnoses (2024, up 13.3%) · NC ranks 10th nationally · ~45,300 PLWH statewide
Fastest Path to Free PrEP in Raleigh-Durham
Start with MISTR (fastest)
Free telehealth PrEP — consultations, at-home labs, medication delivery, all at $0. Works whether you have insurance or not. No ID required.
If you have insurance
PrEP is legally free under the ACA (upheld June 2025). Your insurer must cover medication, labs, and visits at $0. If charged, file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner.
Check NC Medicaid (Healthy Opportunities)
PrEP covered at $0 via NC Medicaid (Healthy Opportunities). Enroll: epass.nc.gov or 888-245-0179.
If uninsured: Gilead Advancing Access
Free medication for uninsured at ≤500% FPL. No immigration requirement. Covers Truvada, Descovy, and Yeztugo. Call 1-800-226-2056. Pair with an FQHC for free labs.
North Carolina Programs & Assistance
North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023. Adults up to 138% FPL now qualify for $0 PrEP coverage including medication, labs, and visits.
Clinics & Community Resources
Duke Health — Infectious Diseases
Durham
Comprehensive PrEP and HIV care through one of the nation's top medical centers.
UNC Infectious Diseases Clinic
Chapel Hill
PrEP services through UNC School of Medicine.
Alliance of AIDS Services — Carolina
Raleigh
PrEP navigation, testing, and case management for the Triangle.
Q Care Plus via Triad Health Project
Statewide (based in Greensboro)
Free PrEP, labs, and visits for all 100 NC counties. At-home testing kits.