PrEP: A Vital Tool for All Communities
At Love The Golden Rule, we believe that sexual health is a fundamental part of overall well-being. As we continue to see a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across Tampa Bay, the need for inclusive, compassionate care is more urgent than ever. We’re committed to ensuring that everyone—regardless of background, identity, or financial ability—has access to the healthcare they deserve. One essential tool in promoting sexual health and preventing the spread of HIV is Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that helps significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
A Rising Need for Compassionate Care
“We’re seeing a rise in STI rates across Tampa Bay, and this tells us that there’s a real need for more education, more testing, and more open conversations about sexual health. PrEP is a critical tool, but it has to be part of a broader, holistic approach,” said Dr. Robert Wallace, founder and medical director at Love The Golden Rule.
Across Florida, STI rates are on the rise. According to the Florida Department of Health, infections like syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia have surged in recent years, particularly among younger populations and men who have sex with men (MSM). These trends, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on healthcare access and testing, underscore the importance of making preventive care, like PrEP, widely available and accessible.
At Love The Golden Rule, we are committed to removing barriers to care. We serve all members of our community, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ population, people of color, and those in low-income brackets. No one should have to choose between their health and their financial situation, and that’s why we provide services regardless of ability to pay.
PrEP: A Tool for Prevention and Empowerment
“PrEP is a game-changer in the fight against HIV. By combining it with regular STI screenings and safe sex practices, we can empower individuals to take control of their sexual health in ways that weren’t possible before,” said Wallace.
PrEP is a once-daily medication that reduces the risk of acquiring HIV from sexual contact by up to 99%, according to the CDC. It’s especially effective for those at higher risk, including individuals in serodiscordant relationships (where one partner is HIV-positive), people with multiple sexual partners, and those who inject drugs. However, PrEP is not just about medicine—it’s about providing people with the confidence and tools to protect their health and lead fulfilling lives.
At our practice, we don’t stop at just providing medication. We integrate PrEP into a comprehensive approach to sexual health that includes regular STI testing, education on safe sex practices, and an environment where people feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly and without judgment.
Dr. Bob’s Mission: Honoring Love and Preventing Loss
“HIV/AIDS prevention is personal to me,” said Dr. Wallace. “I lost my partner to AIDS over 30 years ago, and that loss was what inspired me to open Love The Golden Rule. I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others and making sure no one else had to go through the pain and loss that I experienced.”
Dr. Wallace’s journey toward founding Love The Golden Rule is deeply rooted in his personal history. His partner’s death during the height of the AIDS epidemic ignited a passion in him to provide compassionate, inclusive care, particularly to those most affected by HIV. The clinic’s mission is built on the principle that everyone deserves to be treated with love, dignity, and respect—regardless of their HIV status, sexual orientation, or financial situation.
Today, Love The Golden Rule continues Dr. Wallace’s mission by providing essential healthcare services, including PrEP, HIV testing, and treatment, to the Tampa Bay community. Each patient is treated with the same care and attention that Dr. Wallace would have given his own partner.
The Importance of Inclusive Sexual Health
“At Love The Golden Rule, we believe that sexual health is about more than just preventing disease—it’s about promoting well-being and self-care.
“We want to ensure that everyone, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, has access to the resources they need to stay healthy,” said Wallace.
Our clinic is built on the foundation of inclusivity. For too long, sexual health has been stigmatized, particularly within marginalized communities. At Love The Golden Rule, we work to break down those barriers by offering free or low-cost STI testing, access to PrEP, and a safe, welcoming environment for all.
Whether you’re LGBTQ+, straight, a person of color, or from any walk of life, we are here to support you in maintaining your sexual health. We know that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and we’re committed to making sure no one is left behind.
As STI rates rise across Tampa Bay and the nation, Love The Golden Rule is here to provide the tools, education, and care necessary to fight these infections. With data showing an alarming spike in syphilis and other STIs, especially within marginalized groups, it’s more important than ever to prioritize sexual health and preventive care. Our clinic is here to help.
If you’re interested in learning more about PrEP or want to schedule an appointment for STI testing, contact us today. Your sexual health matters, and we’re here to help—no matter who you are or where you’re from.