Questions on cost of PEP at DSC vs Public Hospital

[Guest Guest Anxious]

I had unprotected sex in a folly. I was the top. Btm says he is clean, but I don't want to take the risk.

 

I am considering going to DSC Clinic tmr to enquire about PEP. 

 

May I check with you guys on what the total cost is at DSC clinic? I see their website states $500-$800. Under what circumstances is it $500.

 

Also, I do have CHAS blue card. Is going to NCID or NUH a better option, if there are subsidized medication, test and consultation, that could work out cheaper than DSC Clinic?

 

Sorry about all my questions about cost. I'm kinda cash strapped at the moment

 

Thank you

[Guest hmm]

I paid 550 for two-drug regimen. This is not including consultation fees. 

 

[Dr T]

On 10/29/2021 at 12:16 AM, Guest Guest Anxious said:

I had unprotected sex in a folly. I was the top. Btm says he is clean, but I don't want to take the risk.

 

I am considering going to DSC Clinic tmr to enquire about PEP. 

 

May I check with you guys on what the total cost is at DSC clinic? I see their website states $500-$800. Under what circumstances is it $500.

 

Also, I do have CHAS blue card. Is going to NCID or NUH a better option, if there are subsidized medication, test and consultation, that could work out cheaper than DSC Clinic?

 

Sorry about all my questions about cost. I'm kinda cash strapped at the moment

 

Thank you

Can contact me via Line: Genethica

or email dr.taufiq@pulse-clinic.com

I can advise you further on the details

[Guaiguaihunk]

On 10/29/2021 at 12:22 AM, Guest hmm said:

I paid 550 for two-drug regimen. This is not including consultation fees. 

 

 

Does this include all the test they ask you to take? Consultation is only $20++ right?

[30yochinese]

On 10/29/2021 at 12:16 AM, Guest Guest Anxious said:

I had unprotected sex in a folly. I was the top. Btm says he is clean, but I don't want to take the risk.

 

I am considering going to DSC Clinic tmr to enquire about PEP. 

 

May I check with you guys on what the total cost is at DSC clinic? I see their website states $500-$800. Under what circumstances is it $500.

 

Also, I do have CHAS blue card. Is going to NCID or NUH a better option, if there are subsidized medication, test and consultation, that could work out cheaper than DSC Clinic?

 

Sorry about all my questions about cost. I'm kinda cash strapped at the moment

 

Thank you

Hi Guest Guest Anxious,

Sorry to hear about ur plight, 🥰😍Hugs, i have an alternative for u, which i did in 2019 & becoz i did this... That is why i am H.I.V. negative today. 1hour after gtg exposed as a Top, i went straight to N.U.H. A&E & was prescribed P.E.P(it was hassle free for me...mite be different for U...)

               

i can't remember how much the subsidised price is, but its def exceeds $150, for 1 week of the Post-Exposure Drug.

                                   

Hope that helps...😘take care!

Edited October 29, 2021 by 30yochinese
.

[Guest guest 123]

Hi, Guest Guest Anxoius,

 

Sorry to hear about your situation. You must be feeling extremely anxious.

 

Please note that if you want to take PEP, you should take it within 72 hours of potential exposure. The longer you wait, the effectiveness of PEP drops.

 

The comparison of public vs private

 

1. Public

DSC clinic is only open from mondays to fridays from 8am-11am and 1pm-4pm. it is closed on saturdays and sundays. Since time is of the essence, and if this happens over the weekend, it is suggested that you head to any of the A&E at the government hospitals (doctors and nurses will have PEP on standby as they themselves might have to take in situations where they have been in contact with blood from from a HIV patient). They should be able to prescribe you at least days' worth of PEP. Thereafter, you can head down to DSC on a weekday. The cost should be around $600-$700. I can't remember if this includes tests for other STDs.

 

2. Private.

Private clinics do charge a premium and my experience is that they charge about $2000 (excl GST). They charge additional if you do tests for different STDs and further charges apply for different methods (throat swab, anal swab and urine).

 

Hope the above helps!

 

[Guest upset]

Is there a minimum period for drugs to be dispensed before it expires?

 

I was prescribed pep which is going to expire in a month time by private clinic. It's manufactured in year 20 but going to expiry in Jun 23 The doc said the drug is effective and can be consumed.

I explained that I would prefer to get pep which has a longer expiry date to be certain the drug is still effective especially we are preventing the infection of HIV and i spent $2.4k on it. In the end, the clinic obliged to change another bottle for me but i have to pay for the 1 tablet which i already took before discovering the expiry date.

 

[Guest PepOrPrep]

4 hours ago, Guest upset said:

Is there a minimum period for drugs to be dispensed before it expires?

 

I was prescribed pep which is going to expire in a month time by private clinic. It's manufactured in year 20 but going to expiry in Jun 23 The doc said the drug is effective and can be consumed.

I explained that I would prefer to get pep which has a longer expiry date to be certain the drug is still effective especially we are preventing the infection of HIV and i spent $2.4k on it. In the end, the clinic obliged to change another bottle for me but i have to pay for the 1 tablet which i already took before discovering the expiry date.

 

Are you talking about truvada prep for HIV or doxy pep for other STIs? They aren’t the same thing.

 

didn’t realise it was so expensive here. I bought mine online.

 

prep- $80 3 months daily use

pep- $50 15 doses

[Guest upset]

it's pep for hiv, cost me $2.4k for 28 days

 

[sgwildfire18]

I would like to share my experience getting PREP at DSC which I thought of taking to protect me and my partner.

 

1. I called up DSC and asked about the process of getting PREP. They told me to go down to see a doctor and that I can get PREP on the same day.

 

2. I went down the next day. The receptionist told me I was given the wrong information and that I needed an appointment to see a doctor. She told me I can get PREP on the same day as the consultation.

 

3. I went down today for my appointment and had to wait nearly 1 hour to see the doctor. He told me I needed to test for HIV and kidney (both of which I know) and that I can only get the PREP 2 weeks later (so much for preventing AIDS). He asked a whole bunch  of questions and then sent me outside to wait for my blood tests.

 

4. Outside, I waited another hour before I got called in for my blood test. The doctor told me that the other doctor had ordered a whole bunch of tests for me. I asked for the cost and was told it would be nearly $300. I said "NO. Forget it" .. he then lowered the number of tests to HIV and syphilis and said it would cost about $150. I said "No. Forget it" (the cost of HIV and syphilis would only be about $70 and I can get the results immediately). So he checked with the first doctor and they agreed to charge me for consultation which is $23.

 

5. I waited another 30 min to get my bill and passed the cashier $50. She waited to give the change in (10 cent / 20 cent) coins. Her excuse? She got no change.

 

6. I told her I would post my whole experience on the internet for all to know

 

[keyboard]

 

I would like to share my experience getting PREP at DSC which I thought of taking to protect me and my partner.

 

1. I called up DSC and asked about the process of getting PREP. They told me to go down to see a doctor and that I can get PREP on the same day.

 

2. I went down the next day. The receptionist told me I was given the wrong information and that I needed an appointment to see a doctor. She told me I can get PREP on the same day as the consultation.

 

3. I went down today for my appointment and had to wait nearly 1 hour to see the doctor. He told me I needed to test for HIV and kidney (both of which I know) and that I can only get the PREP 2 weeks later (so much for preventing AIDS). He asked a whole bunch  of questions and then sent me outside to wait for my blood tests.

 

4. Outside, I waited another hour before I got called in for my blood test. The doctor told me that the other doctor had ordered a whole bunch of tests for me. I asked for the cost and was told it would be nearly $300. I said "NO. Forget it" .. he then lowered the number of tests to HIV and syphilis and said it would cost about $150. I said "No. Forget it" (the cost of HIV and syphilis would only be about $70 and I can get the results immediately). So he checked with the first doctor and they agreed to charge me for consultation which is $23.

 

5. I waited another 30 min to get my bill and passed the cashier $50. She waited to give the change in (10 cent / 20 cent) coins. Her excuse? She got no change.

 

6. I told her I would post my whole experience on the internet for all to know

 

That experience does not sound good at all. There's also an expectation in Singapore that things are a lot more efficient than they actually are.

 

Here's some info from their website, https://www.nsc.com.sg/dsc/prevention-education/prevention/Pages/Post-Exposure-HIV-Prophylaxis.aspx

Had a colleague mentioned that in his country, the doctor treats the smallest thing then come back and check again if it worsens. In Singapore, the doctor treats the most serious thing then come back and lessen the condition.

[StockBottom]

 

I would like to share my experience getting PREP at DSC which I thought of taking to protect me and my partner.

 

1. I called up DSC and asked about the process of getting PREP. They told me to go down to see a doctor and that I can get PREP on the same day.

 

2. I went down the next day. The receptionist told me I was given the wrong information and that I needed an appointment to see a doctor. She told me I can get PREP on the same day as the consultation.

 

3. I went down today for my appointment and had to wait nearly 1 hour to see the doctor. He told me I needed to test for HIV and kidney (both of which I know) and that I can only get the PREP 2 weeks later (so much for preventing AIDS). He asked a whole bunch  of questions and then sent me outside to wait for my blood tests.

 

4. Outside, I waited another hour before I got called in for my blood test. The doctor told me that the other doctor had ordered a whole bunch of tests for me. I asked for the cost and was told it would be nearly $300. I said "NO. Forget it" .. he then lowered the number of tests to HIV and syphilis and said it would cost about $150. I said "No. Forget it" (the cost of HIV and syphilis would only be about $70 and I can get the results immediately). So he checked with the first doctor and they agreed to charge me for consultation which is $23.

 

5. I waited another 30 min to get my bill and passed the cashier $50. She waited to give the change in (10 cent / 20 cent) coins. Her excuse? She got no change.

 

6. I told her I would post my whole experience on the internet for all to know

 

 

This is truly ridiculous, and DSC is not even an underfunded NGO like AfA. It's an official MOH funded clinic, with bad service to boot (read the Google reviews)!  

[obgdcriv]

 

I would like to share my experience getting PREP at DSC which I thought of taking to protect me and my partner.

 

1. I called up DSC and asked about the process of getting PREP. They told me to go down to see a doctor and that I can get PREP on the same day.

 

2. I went down the next day. The receptionist told me I was given the wrong information and that I needed an appointment to see a doctor. She told me I can get PREP on the same day as the consultation.

 

3. I went down today for my appointment and had to wait nearly 1 hour to see the doctor. He told me I needed to test for HIV and kidney (both of which I know) and that I can only get the PREP 2 weeks later (so much for preventing AIDS). He asked a whole bunch  of questions and then sent me outside to wait for my blood tests.

 

4. Outside, I waited another hour before I got called in for my blood test. The doctor told me that the other doctor had ordered a whole bunch of tests for me. I asked for the cost and was told it would be nearly $300. I said "NO. Forget it" .. he then lowered the number of tests to HIV and syphilis and said it would cost about $150. I said "No. Forget it" (the cost of HIV and syphilis would only be about $70 and I can get the results immediately). So he checked with the first doctor and they agreed to charge me for consultation which is $23.

 

5. I waited another 30 min to get my bill and passed the cashier $50. She waited to give the change in (10 cent / 20 cent) coins. Her excuse? She got no change.

 

6. I told her I would post my whole experience on the internet for all to know

 

 

Thanks for sharing. This is terrible. No wonder people I know are getting prep online.

[mallow]

I’d like to share my recent experience. I struggled for a day with various thoughts and dilemmas—feeling embarrassed, ashamed, and concerned about possible HIV exposure. Eventually, I decided to go to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) A&E.

I arrived and registered by 8:55 PM. The staff and nurses were very professional. When they asked about the issue, I simply said, “I may have had possible exposure to HIV.” I’m not sure if it was intentional, but the receptionist asked me to wear a mask before proceeding—perhaps to protect my privacy. I think this was actually necessary, given the circumstances.

I was soon called into a room for further evaluation by a nurse, with another nurse standing by. The questions included: “What happened? Why do you think you were exposed? Was it with a man or a woman? Do you have any fever, rashes, or sore throat? When did this happen? Have you traveled abroad recently?” After answering, I was directed to a waiting area with about 8–9 other people.

Around 50 minutes later, I saw the doctor. He was friendly, made me feel comfortable, and showed great understanding. He drew four small vials of blood for tests, including liver, kidney, hepatitis, and HIV panels (among others I can’t recall). As I have some kidney issues, he couldn’t prescribe the full 7-day course of medication. Instead, he gave me a 3-day supply and asked me to return the next day for additional blood work at the CDC, to reassess the results and adjust the treatment if necessary.

About 10 minutes later, I was called to pay for my bill and receive the medication. The bill amounted to $320+ due to the various blood tests which were not subsided. 

The Next Day

Due to my condition, I had to visit the CDC for further evaluation. The doctor there was a bit eccentric but still helpful. He switched my medication to one that’s safer for my kidneys, although it’s significantly more expensive—around $387 (with GST) for a 28-day supply. Other medications were more affordable, and the most expensive was Dolutegravir ($950+!! but luckily got govt. subsidy). I received a 14-day supply and will follow up again to continue the remaining 14 days, if necessary. The total cost for consultation, after government subsidies, was $327. So, for a full 28-day treatment, the total would be around $650. This doesn’t include the A&E visit. So, the total cost should be about $950 or just under $1,100.

For those without any issues, you may receive the full 28-day supply on the first day, and with A&E fees, I estimate the total cost would be around $730 or slightly more.

Before visiting TTSH, I called PULSE to inquire about PEP costs, which are $2,100 just for the medication. I’m not sure about DSC as their hours are very limited, and they’re closed on weekends. But based on my experience, TTSH seems like a solid choice.

Post thoughts

Honestly, I still feel intimidated and embarrassed by the experience, despite the overall positive outcome so far. I keep reminding myself that no one will remember me (which I’m pretty sure is true), and that this is just a short phase to get through for long-term benefits.

Thankfully, the costs weren’t as high as I’d seen on other websites. I do hope the government can provide more subsidies, if possible!

And lastly, always play it safe—no matter what!

Edited December 15, 2024 by mallow

[doncoin]

@mallow I am curious. Were you required to disclose the name or information on the sexual partner whom you believe to have exposed you to HIV? (For contact tracing purpose). 

 

There is nothing embarrassing about having sex. I think many people over concerned themselves with what strangers think. 

 

 

[StockBottom]

@mallow How long between your possible exposure to hiv and the start of pep? Do you have to go back after pep to follow up and test for hiv again? 

 

What are the medication given for pep besides dolutegravir? I know tenofovir disoproxil (not sure about alafenamide) can be quite bad for kidneys.

 

Yeah there's nothing embarrassing about having sex, it's a most normal condition.

 

That said, once you get hiv medication in Singapore, your record will be with the government.

Edited December 15, 2024 by StockBottom

[mallow]

@doncoin that’s a good point.  I didn’t consider that since it was with a stranger. But if it were someone I knew and they were HIV-positive, I’d like to think I could protect their identity. However, now that I think about it, if the doctor asked about their HIV status, it could be to check if they’re on medication and undetectable, in which case they wouldn’t be able to transmit HIV, and I wouldn’t have needed PEP.

 

And you’re probably right… it’s still somewhat of a cultural thing in many Asian communities where talking openly about sex is considered taboo. 

 

@StockBottom for me, it was about 28 hours. Yes, a follow up will be needed indeed. 

 

Also yes, I only realized the government records part when I was at the hospital. But I’d like to think I made the right choice in the end, haha!

Edited December 15, 2024 by mallow

[mate69]

41 minutes ago, mallow said:

@doncoin that’s a good point.  I didn’t consider that since it was with a stranger. But if it were someone I knew and they were HIV-positive, I’d like to think I could protect their identity. However, now that I think about it, if the doctor asked about their HIV status, it could be to check if they’re on medication and undetectable, in which case they wouldn’t be able to transmit HIV, and I wouldn’t have needed PEP.

 

And you’re probably right… it’s still somewhat of a cultural thing in many Asian communities where talking openly about sex is considered taboo. 

 

@StockBottom for me, it was about 28 hours. Yes, a follow up will be needed indeed. 

 

Also yes, I only realized the government records part when I was at the hospital. But I’d like to think I made the right choice in the end, haha!

 

Thanks for sharing

[singalion]

But at the A&E wouldn't you need to register with your NRIC, pass or other identity document?

[1983rophi]

On 12/14/2024 at 5:27 PM, mallow said:

I’d like to share my recent experience. I struggled for a day with various thoughts and dilemmas—feeling embarrassed, ashamed, and concerned about possible HIV exposure. Eventually, I decided to go to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) A&E.

I arrived and registered by 8:55 PM. The staff and nurses were very professional. When they asked about the issue, I simply said, “I may have had possible exposure to HIV.” I’m not sure if it was intentional, but the receptionist asked me to wear a mask before proceeding—perhaps to protect my privacy. I think this was actually necessary, given the circumstances.

I was soon called into a room for further evaluation by a nurse, with another nurse standing by. The questions included: “What happened? Why do you think you were exposed? Was it with a man or a woman? Do you have any fever, rashes, or sore throat? When did this happen? Have you traveled abroad recently?” After answering, I was directed to a waiting area with about 8–9 other people.

Around 50 minutes later, I saw the doctor. He was friendly, made me feel comfortable, and showed great understanding. He drew four small vials of blood for tests, including liver, kidney, hepatitis, and HIV panels (among others I can’t recall). As I have some kidney issues, he couldn’t prescribe the full 7-day course of medication. Instead, he gave me a 3-day supply and asked me to return the next day for additional blood work at the CDC, to reassess the results and adjust the treatment if necessary.

About 10 minutes later, I was called to pay for my bill and receive the medication. The bill amounted to $320+ due to the various blood tests which were not subsided. 

The Next Day

Due to my condition, I had to visit the CDC for further evaluation. The doctor there was a bit eccentric but still helpful. He switched my medication to one that’s safer for my kidneys, although it’s significantly more expensive—around $387 (with GST) for a 28-day supply. Other medications were more affordable, and the most expensive was Dolutegravir ($950+!! but luckily got govt. subsidy). I received a 14-day supply and will follow up again to continue the remaining 14 days, if necessary. The total cost for consultation, after government subsidies, was $327. So, for a full 28-day treatment, the total would be around $650. This doesn’t include the A&E visit. So, the total cost should be about $950 or just under $1,100.

For those without any issues, you may receive the full 28-day supply on the first day, and with A&E fees, I estimate the total cost would be around $730 or slightly more.

Before visiting TTSH, I called PULSE to inquire about PEP costs, which are $2,100 just for the medication. I’m not sure about DSC as their hours are very limited, and they’re closed on weekends. But based on my experience, TTSH seems like a solid choice.

Post thoughts

Honestly, I still feel intimidated and embarrassed by the experience, despite the overall positive outcome so far. I keep reminding myself that no one will remember me (which I’m pretty sure is true), and that this is just a short phase to get through for long-term benefits.

Thankfully, the costs weren’t as high as I’d seen on other websites. I do hope the government can provide more subsidies, if possible!

And lastly, always play it safe—no matter what!

Hi Mallow, 

I went thru-what-u-went-thru, 

Sending u hugs🙏❤️

[QinWei]

On 10/29/2021 at 12:16 AM, Guest Guest Anxious said:

do have CHAS blue card

CHAS card is designed more for selected Chronic Conditions

eg

Chronic Conditions
Chronic conditions are medical conditions that are generally progressive and require long-term care and medication. There are 23 chronic conditions covered under CHAS. They are:
 

• Allergic Rhinitis
• Anxiety+
• Asthma
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
• Bipolar Disorder+
• Chronic Hepatitis B
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• Dementia
• Diabetes Mellitus (DM) (including Pre-Diabetes) 
• Epilepsy
• Gout
• Hypertension (High blood pressure)
• Ischaemic Heart Disease
• Lipid Disorders (e.g. High cholesterol)
• Major Depression+
• Nephritis/Nephrosis (Chronic Kidney Disease)
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Parkinson's Disease
• Psoriasis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Schizophrenia+
• Stroke

[murano]

https://www.pulse-clinic.com/getting-prep-hiv-prevention-in-bangkok-thailand-mobile

[ebutx]

Is DSC fully anonymous when getting medicines or only the testing is anonymous?

[LoveOutdoors]

Sharing my experience today to get PEP at DSC. I initially went to the Kelantan Lane clinic but my appointment was in Mandalay Road at NSC (my mistake relying on the call from the DSC representative that told me it's the Kelantan Lane one instead of the email). They still entertained me though it's past my appointment time at the registration.

 

I went first to a room where the Nurse asked me questions about my visit and the possible exposure to HIV then performed the 4th-Gen Rapid Test from my blood and advised me to wait 30 mins for the result then wait outside the consulation room and wait to be called by the doctor.

At the consulation room, the doctor asked me again the questions on how I am possibly exposed (so I explain again) and also the medications I'm currently taking. He ordered additional anal swab test and told me he would prescribe the PEP to me. He then asked me to wait at the counseling room.

Once called at the counseling room, the counselor told me that my HIV test is negative and explained that it is not conclusive as it didn't cover my possible exposure. She then gave some advise on the timing of future tests and ways to have safe sex. I was then referred back to the registration area to pay.

I was billed S$45.37 (after subsidies) for the consultation and the HIV test. I wondered where the heck will I get the PEP medication. The clueless me asked the registration again as I didn't know that prescription here is already digital and already at the NHG Health App (not used to this in my home country lol). They refer me to the Pharmacy floor to get the PEP meds. While going there, the nurse called me that I forgot the anal swab test. So I went back again to do it. I was billed adiitonal S$61.55 for the test and asked me to settle it in the app.

I went to the Pharmacy kiosk to register and get my PEP meds and was given queue number. The queue was horrible as a lot of people are waiting to get their own meds as it is shared with other clinics at the NSC. When it's my turn, the Pharmacist explained to me the meds and what not to take together with it. Also gave me a leaflet guide on the meds. Then I was referred to the cashier to pay. The PEP meds costs S$663.81 for Truvada and Edurant.

In summary, here are the cost of my visit at DSC (after subsidies, p.s. no subsidy for meds):

Consultation Fee - S$25.00
HIV Test (4th-Gen) - S$20.37
Anal swab test - S$61.55
Truvada (30 tablets) - S$485.70 
Edurant (30 tablets) - S$123.30
GRAND TOTAL = S$770.73

[TigerYam]

26 minutes ago, LoveOutdoors said:

Sharing my experience today to get PEP at DSC. I initially went to the Kelantan Lane clinic but my appointment was in Mandalay Road at NSC (my mistake relying on the call from the DSC representative that told me it's the Kelantan Lane one instead of the email). They still entertained me though it's past my appointment time at the registration.

 

I went first to a room where the Nurse asked me questions about my visit and the possible exposure to HIV then performed the 4th-Gen Rapid Test from my blood and advised me to wait 30 mins for the result then wait outside the consulation room and wait to be called by the doctor.

At the consulation room, the doctor asked me again the questions on how I am possibly exposed (so I explain again) and also the medications I'm currently taking. He ordered additional anal swab test and told me he would prescribe the PEP to me. He then asked me to wait at the counseling room.

Once called at the counseling room, the counselor told me that my HIV test is negative and explained that it is not conclusive as it didn't cover my possible exposure. She then gave some advise on the timing of future tests and ways to have safe sex. I was then referred back to the registration area to pay.

I was billed S$45.37 (after subsidies) for the consultation and the HIV test. I wondered where the heck will I get the PEP medication. The clueless me asked the registration again as I didn't know that prescription here is already digital and already at the NHG Health App (not used to this in my home country lol). They refer me to the Pharmacy floor to get the PEP meds. While going there, the nurse called me that I forgot the anal swab test. So I went back again to do it. I was billed adiitonal S$61.55 for the test and asked me to settle it in the app.

I went to the Pharmacy kiosk to register and get my PEP meds and was given queue number. The queue was horrible as a lot of people are waiting to get their own meds as it is shared with other clinics at the NSC. When it's my turn, the Pharmacist explained to me the meds and what not to take together with it. Also gave me a leaflet guide on the meds. Then I was referred to the cashier to pay. The PEP meds costs S$663.81 for Truvada and Edurant.

In summary, here are the cost of my visit at DSC (after subsidies, p.s. no subsidy for meds):

Consultation Fee - S$25.00
HIV Test (4th-Gen) - S$20.37
Anal swab test - S$61.55
Truvada (30 tablets) - S$485.70 
Edurant (30 tablets) - S$123.30
GRAND TOTAL = S$770.73

 

Wow.... Very expensive. If you used "condom" for safety purposes, no need to pay so much. 

 

Anyway, you are not local, 50% medical subsidies to you as a PR. 

Edited October 22, 2025 by TigerYam

[LoveOutdoors]

1 minute ago, TigerYam said:

 

Wow.... Very expensive. If you used "condom" for safety purposes, no need to pay so much. 

 

Anyway, you are not local, no medical subsidies to you... 

I used condom, but after the sex I forgot to check the condom (the guy took it with him when he left). I cleaned up in toilet after and I noticed some white fluids coming out my butt which seems to be semen. So I got anxious and maybe the guy I have sex with did take out the condom before he came. So I didn't take chance to have PEP even though it's so expensive. It's my first time bottoming and I won't do it again.

[TigerYam]

2 minutes ago, LoveOutdoors said:

I used condom, but after the sex I forgot to check the condom (the guy took it with him when he left). I cleaned up in toilet after and I noticed some white fluids coming out my butt which seems to be semen. So I got anxious and maybe the guy I have sex with did take out the condom before he came. So I didn't take chance to have PEP even though it's so expensive. It's my first time bottoming and I won't do it again.

 

30 days medicine. After it, do you need to follow up? 

 

If YOU can recognize that guy, you can request him for check up. Some men hide their HIV/AIDS status and come out for fun.... And you know it, you can report him to polices. 

[Vometra]

41 minutes ago, LoveOutdoors said:

Consultation Fee - S$25.00

HIV Test (4th-Gen) - S$20.37
Anal swab test - S$61.55
Truvada (30 tablets) - S$485.70 
Edurant (30 tablets) - S$123.30
GRAND TOTAL = S$770.73

 

Healthcare cost in SG is atrocious. Imagine a young chap scared but unable to afford all these. I hope there better be some scheme to help them.

[fetish72]

On 8/29/2023 at 12:54 PM, StockBottom said:

 

This is truly ridiculous, and DSC is not even an underfunded NGO like AfA. It's an official MOH funded clinic, with bad service to boot (read the Google reviews)!  

Hi have try to called PULSE Clinic. I get my test in BKK at the same time top my Prep, Doxcy prep and get my testerone shot there as well

[fetish72]

2 hours ago, Vometra said:

 

Healthcare cost in SG is atrocious. Imagine a young chap scared but unable to afford all these. I hope there better be some scheme to help them.

The medical making people to come clean to do the screening and get prevention but have to put on hold and rethink about it as the scenario is making tense plus the costs that make them think twice and may forget about it.

[HC-B]

11 hours ago, LoveOutdoors said:

Sharing my experience today to get PEP at DSC. I initially went to the Kelantan Lane clinic but my appointment was in Mandalay Road at NSC (my mistake relying on the call from the DSC representative that told me it's the Kelantan Lane one instead of the email). They still entertained me though it's past my appointment time at the registration.

 

I went first to a room where the Nurse asked me questions about my visit and the possible exposure to HIV then performed the 4th-Gen Rapid Test from my blood and advised me to wait 30 mins for the result then wait outside the consulation room and wait to be called by the doctor.

At the consulation room, the doctor asked me again the questions on how I am possibly exposed (so I explain again) and also the medications I'm currently taking. He ordered additional anal swab test and told me he would prescribe the PEP to me. He then asked me to wait at the counseling room.

Once called at the counseling room, the counselor told me that my HIV test is negative and explained that it is not conclusive as it didn't cover my possible exposure. She then gave some advise on the timing of future tests and ways to have safe sex. I was then referred back to the registration area to pay.

I was billed S$45.37 (after subsidies) for the consultation and the HIV test. I wondered where the heck will I get the PEP medication. The clueless me asked the registration again as I didn't know that prescription here is already digital and already at the NHG Health App (not used to this in my home country lol). They refer me to the Pharmacy floor to get the PEP meds. While going there, the nurse called me that I forgot the anal swab test. So I went back again to do it. I was billed adiitonal S$61.55 for the test and asked me to settle it in the app.

I went to the Pharmacy kiosk to register and get my PEP meds and was given queue number. The queue was horrible as a lot of people are waiting to get their own meds as it is shared with other clinics at the NSC. When it's my turn, the Pharmacist explained to me the meds and what not to take together with it. Also gave me a leaflet guide on the meds. Then I was referred to the cashier to pay. The PEP meds costs S$663.81 for Truvada and Edurant.

In summary, here are the cost of my visit at DSC (after subsidies, p.s. no subsidy for meds):

Consultation Fee - S$25.00
HIV Test (4th-Gen) - S$20.37
Anal swab test - S$61.55
Truvada (30 tablets) - S$485.70 
Edurant (30 tablets) - S$123.30
GRAND TOTAL = S$770.73

You chose Truvada which is the original American patent and that’s very expensive, plus you added on Edurant.

 

If you’ve chosen to just pay for a prescription from DSC and then order the Thai manufactured version online on your own for overseas delivery to SGP, you’d have easily saved more than 50% of your total costs.

 

A trip to DSC (excluding the meds in your list) usually costs less than S$300, subsidies all included.

[Igood]

1 hour ago, HC-B said:

You chose Truvada which is the original American patent and that’s very expensive, plus you added on Edurant.

 

If you’ve chosen to just pay for a prescription from DSC and then order the Thai manufactured version online on your own for overseas delivery to SGP, you’d have easily saved more than 50% of your total costs.

 

A trip to DSC (excluding the meds in your list) usually costs less than S$300, subsidies all included.

Wait for overseas delivery die of HIV already bro

[Vometra]

9 hours ago, fetish72 said:

Hi have try to called PULSE Clinic. I get my test in BKK at the same time top my Prep, Doxcy prep and get my testerone shot there as well

 

Pulse is quite expensive.

 

Generic Prep can be obtained easily and cheaply online.

Not sure about Pep though, which also require closer doctor monitoring, esp if you're taking such medication for the first time.

 

For me I buy Prep online, do my liver and kidney function tests at my GP (cheap, and you can just tell him you're doing your annual body checkup). You can also get a strip or two of doxycycline from your doc, for "travel" purposes 😇Your Hiv and Sti tests you can do it at Dsc, hiv test sometimes free. Add together it's not too expensive, plus I do on-demand Prep (not enough sex 😥), so it's even cheaper.

 

Pep however ....

Edited October 23, 2025 by Vometra

[mate69]

5 hours ago, HC-B said:

You chose Truvada which is the original American patent and that’s very expensive, plus you added on Edurant.

 

If you’ve chosen to just pay for a prescription from DSC and then order the Thai manufactured version online on your own for overseas delivery to SGP, you’d have easily saved more than 50% of your total costs.

 

A trip to DSC (excluding the meds in your list) usually costs less than S$300, subsidies all included.

 

Wrong info. ^

Descovy is the brand name med, while Truvada is the generic.

Over here, most of us get Descovy for free for some particular providers that we sign on to

[QinWei]

On 10/29/2021 at 12:16 AM, Guest Guest Anxious said:

do have CHAS blue card

 do love your body more, dont ever risk it ! esp financially u needed support too


@mate69so good? sign @where?

 

and that is just a normal consultation or to get tested: how often do u need to spend this S$300?

5 hours ago, HC-B said:

trip to DSC (excluding the meds in your list) usually costs less than S$300, subsidies all included.

24 minutes ago, mate69 said:

most of us get Descovy for free for some particular providers that we sign on to

 

 

how much in All ? but what is the effect of testoterone? 

 

13 hours ago, fetish72 said:

PULSE Clinic. I get my test in BKK at the same time top my Prep, Doxcy prep and get my testerone shot there as well

Thanks all, wish to learn

[Vometra]

5 hours ago, mate69 said:

 

Wrong info. ^

Descovy is the brand name med, while Truvada is the generic.

 

Wrong info also 😉  

Descovy is the brand name for tenofovir alafenamide + emtricitabine, while Truvada is the brand name for tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + emtricitabine.

Both are patented and originally manufactured by Gilead, and both also have generics manufactured by other companies like Mylan and Cipla.

 

While similar in many ways, Descovy and Truvada have distinct pharmacology and side effects. For example, the former is not approved for on-demand prep while the latter is.

 

[mate69]

21 hours ago, Vometra said:

 

Wrong info also 😉  

Descovy is the brand name for tenofovir alafenamide + emtricitabine, while Truvada is the brand name for tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + emtricitabine.

Both are patented and originally manufactured by Gilead, and both also have generics manufactured by other companies like Mylan and Cipla.

 

While similar in many ways, Descovy and Truvada have distinct pharmacology and side effects. For example, the former is not approved for on-demand prep while the latter is.

 

 

Is Descovy available at low or no cost in Singapore? My understanding is that if docs need to prescribe PrEP, they tend to prescribe Truvada and not Descovy, which is way more expensive.

Yeah, Descovy is for daily use and not meant for on-demand usage, but is much less demanding on the liver/kidney(?) than Truvada is.

[mate69]

On 10/22/2025 at 11:57 PM, QinWei said:

 do love your body more, dont ever risk it ! esp financially u needed support too


@mate69so good? sign @where?

 

and that is just a normal consultation or to get tested: how often do u need to spend this S$300?

 

 

how much in All ? but what is the effect of testoterone? 

 

Thanks all, wish to learn

 

@QinWei The cost of Descovy over here is about S$900 per month but typically, employer insurance covers most if not all of that

[QinWei]

no way, will let employer know

1 hour ago, mate69 said:

but typically, employer insurance covers most if not all of that

BTW, i dont have such kind of insurance from Employer

[Vometra]

3 hours ago, mate69 said:

 

Is Descovy available at low or no cost in Singapore? 

 

Nothing branded in SG is cheap 😅 

And Descovy would certainly be more expensive than Truvada as it is newer and "better", according to Gilead of course!

 

Do our doctors even prescribe Descovy here? I know the injectables like Apretude are not available here.

[Steve5380]

My sympathy for so many gays who have to suffer this stress over HIV, spend time and money trying to find as much protection as possible from it.  As an outsider, my recommendation is simple:  why not become a SIDE?  I know...  it is easier to say it than to do it!

 

On the other hand, anal is not as addictive as opioids, drugs, etc.  The urges of sex can always be relieved by a hand job.  And we can recover from addictions. In my trivial experience, I have bottomed only once. That was enough!  I hate PAIN!!   Being a Senior,  I have had multiple colonoscopies.  I had my LAST one two days ago,  and it was just a simple sigmoidoscopy  ( a colonoscopy of only the descending sigmoid colon). And like previous procedures,  I had it done without sedation, so I could see my insides on the monitor,  an interesting view, ha ha. 😃  But there was some pain too.  This confirms my principle that the ass should be used only to eject, not to force something in it. 

 

But we are all different.  Please don't feel bad about my perhaps insensitive comment.