Preventing HIV Today: Testing, PrEP, PEP, And Primary Care’s Role with Dr. Cameron Wagenbrenner

Many people still hold outdated beliefs about HIV, leading to fear, missed testing, and preventable infections. In this episode, Dr. Wagenbrenner, an internal medicine physician at MedLink, breaks down the essentials—how HIV affects the immune system, how it differs from AIDS, and why accurate information saves lives. We cover national and Georgia-specific stats, real transmission risks, and the common myths science has long disproven. We also dive into today’s prevention tools: safer sex practices, PrEP options like Truvada, Descovy, Apretude, and the new six-month injectable, plus PEP and the crucial 72-hour window after possible exposure. Dr. Wagenbrenner explains who should get screened, how rapid and blood tests work, and why easy access to prevention and testing drives down transmission. Treatment has advanced dramatically, too. Many patients now take one pill a day or receive periodic injections, experience fewer side effects, and reach undetectable viral loads that protect their health and their partners. Dr. Wagenbrenner shares how primary care normalizes these conversations and supports patients without judgment. If you learned something new, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find trusted HIV prevention and care guidance. Thank you for listening to the MedLink Georgia Podcast. New episodes feature conversations with providers, leaders, and community partners who are working to improve access to quality, compassionate care. Follow us on social media to stay connected and see what’s happening across MedLink Georgia: https://linktr.ee/medlinkga?utm_sourc... Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and if you enjoyed this episode, please share it and leave a review. Your support helps more people find the show and stay connected to our mission.