If you need Tenofovir Disoproxil for HIV treatment, PrEP, or hepatitis B, the first step is finding a doctor who can prescribe it. That sounds straightforward — but depending on where you live and what you need it for, it's not always obvious who to call or where to start.

This guide walks you through the types of doctors who prescribe Tenofovir Disoproxil, how to find one near you (including telehealth options), and what to expect at your appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Tenofovir Disoproxil?

Tenofovir Disoproxil (brand name Viread) is prescribed by several types of healthcare providers, depending on your condition:

• Infectious disease specialists — These are the go-to doctors for HIV treatment and prevention. If you're starting antiretroviral therapy or PrEP, an ID specialist is often the most experienced choice.
• HIV/AIDS specialists — Many larger cities have clinics dedicated specifically to HIV care. These providers prescribe Tenofovir Disoproxil frequently and are deeply familiar with its use.
• Hepatologists and gastroenterologists — If you need Tenofovir Disoproxil for chronic hepatitis B, a liver specialist is typically the prescribing physician.
• Primary care doctors and internists — Many primary care providers are comfortable prescribing Tenofovir Disoproxil, especially for PrEP. This is increasingly common as PrEP awareness has grown.
• Family medicine physicians — Similar to primary care, many family doctors now prescribe PrEP and manage straightforward HIV or HBV treatment plans.

The bottom line: you don't always need a specialist. For PrEP in particular, your regular doctor can often write the prescription. For more complex HIV or hepatitis B cases, a specialist may be more appropriate.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are practical ways to locate a prescriber in your area:

1. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor

If you already have a doctor, start there. Even if they don't prescribe Tenofovir Disoproxil themselves, they can refer you to someone who does. Many PCPs are now trained in PrEP prescribing.

2. Use the HRSA HIV/AIDS Bureau Locator

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) maintains a locator tool for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program-funded clinics. These clinics provide HIV care regardless of your ability to pay. Visit findhivcare.hrsa.gov to search by ZIP code.

3. Search for Local PrEP Providers

If you need Tenofovir Disoproxil for PrEP, the CDC's PrEP locator at preplocator.org can help you find providers and clinics near you that offer PrEP services, often with financial assistance.

4. Check Community Health Centers

Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) serve patients on a sliding-fee scale. Many have providers experienced in prescribing Tenofovir Disoproxil for HIV prevention and treatment.

5. Consider Telehealth

Telehealth has expanded access to Tenofovir Disoproxil prescriptions significantly. Several online platforms now offer PrEP consultations, lab orders, and prescriptions entirely remotely. This is especially useful if you live in a rural area or prefer privacy. Services like MISTR, Nurx, and PlushCare offer PrEP prescriptions via telehealth.

6. Contact Your Insurance Company

Call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask for in-network providers who prescribe antiretrovirals or PrEP. This ensures you'll get the best coverage for your visits and lab work.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Once you've found a provider, here's what a typical first visit looks like:

• Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your health history, current medications, and why you need Tenofovir Disoproxil.
• Lab work — For PrEP, you'll need an HIV test (to confirm you're negative), hepatitis B screening, kidney function tests (creatinine/eGFR), and potentially STI screening. For HIV treatment or hepatitis B, additional labs like viral load and liver function tests are standard.
• Discussion of side effects — Your provider should explain common and serious side effects of Tenofovir Disoproxil, including the importance of kidney monitoring.
• Prescription — If labs are acceptable, you'll receive your prescription. Your doctor may also discuss drug interactions and follow-up scheduling.
• Follow-up plan — Expect follow-up visits every 3 months for PrEP (with repeat HIV testing and kidney checks) or as directed for HIV/HBV treatment.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. A good provider will take time to explain your treatment plan and address concerns.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once you have your prescription in hand, you'll need to fill it at a pharmacy. A few things to keep in mind:

• Check stock first — While Tenofovir Disoproxil is generally available, some pharmacies may not keep it in stock. Use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability before making the trip.
• Compare prices — Generic Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is widely available and typically costs $30–$80/month with a discount card. Check our guide on how to save money on Tenofovir Disoproxil for more options.
• Look into assistance programs — If cost is a barrier, Gilead's Advancing Access program, the federal Ready, Set, PrEP program, and other patient assistance programs can help cover costs.
• Don't skip doses — Tenofovir Disoproxil works best when taken consistently every day. Missing doses can reduce its effectiveness for both treatment and prevention.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor to prescribe Tenofovir Disoproxil is easier than many people expect. Whether you go through your primary care doctor, a specialist, a community health center, or a telehealth platform, there are multiple pathways to getting the care you need.

If you're unsure where to start, a telehealth consultation is often the fastest and most private option. And once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy with Tenofovir Disoproxil in stock near you.

For more information about this medication, read our overview: What Is Tenofovir Disoproxil?