Why Finding the Right Doctor for Tivicay Matters

Tivicay (Dolutegravir) is a powerful integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) used to treat HIV-1. But not every doctor is comfortable prescribing it. If you're newly diagnosed, switching medications, or moving to a new area, finding the right prescriber is one of the most important steps you can take for your health.

This guide walks you through exactly how to find a doctor who can prescribe Tivicay near you — including specialists, primary care providers, and telehealth options.

What Types of Doctors Prescribe Tivicay?

Several types of healthcare providers can prescribe Tivicay:

• Infectious disease specialists — These doctors have advanced training in HIV treatment and are the most common prescribers of antiretroviral medications like Tivicay.
• HIV specialists — Some doctors focus exclusively on HIV care, even if their board certification is in internal medicine or family medicine.
• Internal medicine and family medicine doctors — In areas without specialists, primary care doctors with HIV experience may prescribe Tivicay.
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants — In many states, advanced practice providers with HIV training can prescribe antiretrovirals.

The key factor isn't the title — it's experience. You want a provider who regularly manages HIV patients, monitors viral loads and CD4 counts, and stays current on treatment guidelines.

How to Search for an HIV Doctor Near You

Here are the best ways to find a qualified prescriber in your area:

1. Use the HIV.gov Provider Locator

The federal government maintains a database of HIV care providers at locator.hiv.gov. You can search by zip code to find clinics, hospitals, and individual providers near you. This tool includes Ryan White-funded clinics, which provide care regardless of your ability to pay.

2. Check With Your Insurance Company

If you have insurance, your plan's provider directory is a good starting point. Search for infectious disease specialists or HIV care providers who are in-network. This helps you avoid surprise bills and ensures your Tivicay prescription will be covered at the best rate.

3. Contact Your Local Health Department

County and state health departments often maintain lists of HIV care providers. Many also run clinics that provide HIV treatment directly. These clinics may offer sliding-scale fees based on your income.

4. Ask Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists who fill HIV prescriptions regularly know which local doctors prescribe Tivicay. If you're already picking up your medication, ask your pharmacist for a referral.

5. Use AETC (AIDS Education and Training Centers)

The AETC network trains healthcare providers in HIV care. Their directory can help you find experienced providers, especially in underserved areas.

Telehealth Options for Tivicay Prescriptions

Telehealth has made HIV care more accessible than ever. Several platforms now offer virtual appointments with HIV-experienced providers who can prescribe Tivicay. This is especially helpful if you:

• Live in a rural area without nearby specialists
• Have transportation challenges
• Want more privacy in your care
• Need a quick follow-up without taking time off work

Keep in mind that Tivicay prescribing requires lab monitoring, including viral load and CD4 count tests. Your telehealth provider will need to order these labs, which you'll complete at a local lab facility. Most telehealth platforms partner with national lab networks to make this easy.

What to Look for in an HIV Care Provider

When choosing a doctor, consider these factors:

• Experience with HIV patients — Ask how many HIV patients they currently manage. More experience generally means better care.
• Knowledge of current guidelines — HIV treatment changes frequently. Your doctor should be familiar with the latest Tivicay dosing guidelines and alternatives.
• Willingness to discuss options — A good provider will talk through options like alternatives to Tivicay if needed, including combination products like Dovato or Triumeq.
• Understanding of side effects — They should proactively discuss Tivicay side effects and what to watch for.
• Help with affordability — The best providers help you navigate savings programs and patient assistance for Tivicay, which costs $2,800–$2,925 per month without insurance.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

If you're seeing a new HIV care provider, here's what typically happens:

1. Medical history review — The doctor will ask about your HIV diagnosis, past treatments, and other health conditions.
2. Lab work — Expect blood tests for viral load, CD4 count, resistance testing (if switching medications), kidney and liver function, and other baseline labs.
3. Medication discussion — Your provider will explain why they're recommending Tivicay (or another regimen) and go over how Tivicay works.
4. Drug interaction check — They'll review all your current medications to avoid dangerous drug interactions. For example, Tivicay cannot be taken with Dofetilide.
5. Insurance and cost planning — The office should help verify your insurance coverage and connect you with the ViiVConnect Savings Card or patient assistance programs if needed.

Ryan White Clinics and Federally Funded Care

If you don't have insurance or can't afford a specialist, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program funds clinics across the country that provide HIV care at no cost or reduced cost. These clinics can prescribe Tivicay and help you access the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), which covers HIV medications in every state.

To find a Ryan White clinic near you, visit locator.hiv.gov and filter for Ryan White-funded services.

What If There Are No Specialists Near You?

Some areas — particularly rural regions — have few or no infectious disease specialists. If that's your situation:

• Ask your primary care doctor if they're willing to manage your HIV care with specialist support via Project ECHO or similar programs.
• Use telehealth to connect with a remote HIV specialist.
• Contact your state ADAP for referrals to HIV care providers who serve your region.
• Check if a nearby hospital system has an HIV clinic — even if it's a longer drive, you may only need in-person visits every few months.

Switching Doctors? How to Make It Smooth

If you're already on Tivicay and switching to a new provider, take these steps:

• Request your medical records, including lab results and treatment history, before your first visit.
• Bring a list of all current medications, including supplements.
• Ask your current doctor for a referral if possible.
• Make sure you have enough Tivicay to last until your new provider can write prescriptions — use MedFinder to verify stock at pharmacies near your new location.

Finding Tivicay After You Have a Prescription

Once your doctor writes a Tivicay prescription, you'll need to find a pharmacy that has it in stock. Because Tivicay is a specialty medication, not every pharmacy carries it. Use MedFinder to check pharmacy availability in real time without making phone calls.

If you're having trouble finding Tivicay, read our guide on why Tivicay can be hard to find and what to do about it.

The Bottom Line

Finding the right doctor for Tivicay doesn't have to be stressful. Start with specialist directories, check your insurance network, and don't overlook telehealth options. The most important thing is connecting with a provider who has HIV experience and can help you stay on track with your treatment.

Need to find Tivicay in stock near you? Search on MedFinder to check real-time pharmacy availability.