Understanding and Preventing HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can affect any person no matter your sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, or age. Certain groups are at higher risk for HIV because of different risk factors.

What is HIV?

HIV is caused by the HIV virus. It can be spread through blood, semen, and anal fluid. This is often through sex or sharing needles. Both the virus and the illness it causes are called HIV.

There is no cure for HIV, but you can control it with HIV treatment. AIDS is the most severe stage of HIV illness.

Visit the CDC to learn more about HIV facts and treatment options.

How to Prevent HIV

Most people who get HIV get it through anal or vaginal sex, or sharing needles, syringes, or other drug tools (like cookers). There are many ways to prevent the spread of HIV.

Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy:

  • Use condoms each time you have sex. Condoms are an effective way to protect yourself from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Get Tested: All people between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. To learn more about HIV testing, visit the CDC.
  • Talk to your partner(s) about their HIV status and STI testing. This will help you make informed choices about your health.
  • Ask your primary care provider* (PCP) about HIV medication such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
  • Never share needles. You may visit the San Francisco 6th Street Harm Reduction Center for their free syringe exchange program.

Get support with SFHP

If you are 12 years old or older, you can get care for HIV/AIDS without your parent or guardians’ permission. SFHP covers care for HIV/AIDS including prevention, testing, and treatment for all people ages 12 and up. The doctor or clinic you go to does not have to be part of SFHP. For this type of care, you can choose any Medi-Cal doctor. You can go to them without a referral or pre-approval (prior authorization).

Learn more in your SFHP Member Handbook or visit SFHP Covered Services and Benefits.

For help finding a doctor or getting to get to your health visits, you can call SFHP Customer Service at 1(800) 288-5555 (TTY 1(888) 883-7347 or 711).

*Your primary care provider (PCP) is your main doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.