Background:
Despite strong recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
disparities persist in prescribing and in the use of Pre exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV.
This research aims to survey physicians at Jackson Park Hospital (JPH), to understand their
perspectives and prescribing practices regarding PrEP; as well as identifying opportunities to
improve knowledge and reduce barriers in dispensing PrEP, especially among trainee
physicians.

Methods:
An anonymous cross-sectional survey consisting of 20 questions was distributed to physicians at JPH in person via paper forms. Verbal consent was obtained from all participants. Eligible
participants included physicians who care for patients aged 14-65 years, who have experience
managing sexually transmitted infections, and those who treat patients that use injection drugs.

Results:
Twenty surveys were distributed and fifteen physicians participated. Most participants were
family medicine residents (PGY-1 to PGY-3). All respondents reported awareness of PrEP and
expressed comfort in discussing sexual health and prescribing the medication. However, only
20% (3/15) had previously prescribed PrEP. The most common concerns were related to
patient-level factors such as adherence and systemic factors like cost and time management.
Another important yet overlooked finding was stigma, with physicians identifying both patient
and provider related contributors.

Conclusion:
Although awareness and perceived effectiveness of PrEP were high among surveyed
physicians, prescribing rates remained low. Targeted educational initiatives within residency
programs and system-level supports may improve PrEP implementation and help address HIV
prevention disparities in high-risk communities.