PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/prep

Introduction

**Course Review: PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients** In the landscape of infectious disease prevention, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) represents a significant advancement in the fight against HIV. For those interested in understanding both the practical and theoretical underpinnings of this vital medication, the course titled **“PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients”** offered by Johns Hopkins University on Coursera is an exceptional learning opportunity. ### Course Overview This course is designed as an educational platform for both healthcare providers and patients, bridging the gap between medical information and patient experience. Utilizing the antiretroviral medication emtricitabine/tenofovir, PrEP has been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual encounters and through needle sharing. The course offers insights from leaders in the field, thus ensuring that participants receive high-quality, evidence-based information. ### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured into six modules, each focusing on different aspects of PrEP. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect: 1. **Module 1**: This foundational module introduces PrEP, highlighting key studies that have established its effectiveness. Patients will learn to assess their individual readiness for PrEP, while providers will gain insight through case studies from around the world on how to implement PrEP programs. 2. **Module 2**: This module clarifies distinctions between PrEP and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), crucial for understanding when to use each. The pharmacodynamics of tenofovir/emtricitabine are discussed in detail, making this module particularly valuable for providers looking to delve deeper into clinical applications. 3. **Module 3**: Addressing the nuances of accessing healthcare, this module focuses on priority populations, including men who have sex with men, women, adolescents, and others. Importantly, it offers self-advocacy tips for patients and emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive care among providers. 4. **Module 4**: Here, participants will explore the practicalities of accessing PrEP services. Providers will learn about the key populations in their areas, while patients will discuss barriers to access, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced in real-world settings. 5. **Module 5**: This module guides participants through the steps of the first clinical visit, including lab work, sexual health assessments, and payment discussions. It focuses on fostering an open and non-judging environment for patient inquiries and concerns. 6. **Module 6**: The final module reviews ongoing management of PrEP after initiation, emphasizing adherence, risk reduction strategies, and the management of potential side effects. It equips both patients and providers with the tools necessary for long-term engagement with PrEP. ### Course Recommendations I wholeheartedly recommend **“PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients”** for anyone connected to the healthcare field or who is seeking personal knowledge about HIV prevention strategies. The combination of expert insights, peer-reviewed content, and real-world case studies makes this course a unique and invaluable resource. For healthcare providers, this course equips you with the essential tools and information to effectively counsel patients about PrEP, while also understanding community needs. For potential PrEP patients or advocates, the course empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. ### Conclusion In an era where HIV remains a major public health concern, courses like **“PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients”** play a critical role in educating both healthcare professionals and patients alike. By bridging knowledge gaps and fostering understanding, this course not only prepares individuals to embrace PrEP but also contributes to broader public health goals. If you’re looking to enhance your understanding of HIV prevention and care, look no further than this comprehensive and insightful course on Coursera.

Syllabus

Module 1

In this module, we describe PrEP and the evidence from the formative international studies that led to guidelines in the US and abroad recommending its implementation for HIV prevention. For patients, we discuss the importance of assessing your individual need and readiness to begin PrEP. For providers, we present case studies of implementation projects around the world. Please be sure to follow the link on the right below each video to complete a short speaker evaluation. Thanks!

In this module, we distinguish PrEP from post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and when each is most appropriate. We also review what's in the pipeline for other forms of PrEP medication and modes of delivery. For Providers, we explain the activity of tenofovir/emtricitibine against HIV infection, its general pharmacodynamics and the application of clinical practice guidelines in a community clinic.

In this module, we review issues related to accessing and navigating the healthcare system that are relevant to priority populations for PrEP, including men who have sex with men (MSM), women, sero-different couples, adolescents, transgender persons, sex workers and persons who inject drugs or experience coercive sex. For patients, content covers self-advocacy and population-focused concerns and resources for PrEP services. For providers, we discuss the need and approach for tailoring PrEP for priority and often under-served communities with cultural humility.

In this module, we review issues related to accessing PrEP. For providers, we consider how to identify priority populations for PrEP in your service area, discuss the relative costs and outcomes for PrEP as a public health program, key elements of a PrEP business plan and the role of community outreach. For patients, barriers to accessing services are addressed.

In this module, steps of the first clinic visit are reviewed, including payment for PrEP medication and services, lab work and sexual health assessment. The competencies for performing a thorough and non-judging sexual history, STI screening, and patient education and practical advice to offer clients regarding adherence are discussed.

In this module, we review considerations for continuing PrEP beyond the first clinic visit, how to think about the quality of PrEP services, and when discontinuation may be appropriate. For patients, topics include medication adherence and risk reduction. For providers, recommendations for management of STIs, screening for and addressing barriers to medication adherence, models of care and case management and clinic retention are reviewed.