HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis: Knowledge and attitudes among general practitioners

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was accepted on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme on 1 April 2018, allowing general practitioners (GPs) to prescribe to patients in general practice. This study provides a timely assessment of GP knowledge and attitudes towards HIV PrEP. METHOD: An explanatory mixed method approach was used. A content-validated questionnaire was distributed to GPs in the Mackay region to assess knowledge and attitudes towards PrEP, followed by individual in-depth interviews. RESULTS: Forty-five of 109 GPs (41.1%) responded. One-third (15 of 45) had previously heard of PrEP; 71.4% (30 of 42) indicated a lack of comfort with its prescription while 60% (27 of 45) reported that provision of formalised guidelines was likely to increase prescription confidence. Ten GPs were interviewed until data saturation was achieved. Results supported the quantitative findings. DISCUSSION: GPs expressed positive attitudes towards HIV PrEP. Limited knowledge could be overcome through formalised guidelines and education.