PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) — in Croatian poslijeekspozicijska profilaksa — is a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication that can prevent HIV infection after a potential exposure. It must be started within 72 hours — ideally within 24 hours.

Where to Go

Go to the nearest hospital emergency department (Hitna pomoć or Hitni prijem). PEP is available at all major public hospitals in Croatia.

Zagreb — Primary Option

UHID (Klinika za infektivne bolesti "Dr. Fran Mihaljević") Mihaljevićeva 14, 10000 Zagreb Phone: 01 23 26 100 | bfm.hr

UHID is Croatia's infectious disease hospital and the most experienced institution for sexual health emergencies in Zagreb. The emergency and outpatient units both handle PEP requests. If you're in Zagreb, this is the best place to go.

KBC Zagreb (Klinički Bolnički Centar Zagreb) Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb | Phone: 01 23 88 888 An alternative major hospital emergency department in Zagreb.

Outside Zagreb

City Hospital Phone
Split KBC Split — Hitna pomoć (Spinčićeva 1) 021 556 111
Rijeka KBC Rijeka — Hitna pomoć (Krešimirova 42) 051 658 111
Osijek KB Osijek — Hitna pomoć (Josipa Huttlera 4) 031 511 511

At any of these emergency departments, say:

"Imao sam rizični kontakt s HIV-om. Trebam PEP." ("I had risky contact with HIV. I need PEP.")

What Happens at the Emergency Department

  1. Triage — explain the situation; PEP is time-sensitive and you'll be prioritised
  2. Assessment — a doctor reviews the nature of the exposure and tests your HIV status (rapid test)
  3. Starter medication — if PEP is appropriate, you receive the first few days of medication
  4. Follow-up — directed to UHID or the infectious disease outpatient clinic for the full 28-day course
  5. Monitoring — HIV test at day 28 and 3 months

Cost

  • HZZO insured Croatian residents: PEP is covered; standard hospital co-payments apply
  • EU EHIC holders: Emergency treatment including PEP should be covered
  • No insurance: You will receive a bill; emergency treatment cannot be withheld. Speak to the hospital's social services if cost is a barrier.

The 72-Hour Window

Time since exposure Action
Under 72 hours Go to Hitna pomoć immediately — PEP is possible
Over 72 hours PEP is not effective — get tested and monitor
4–6 weeks later HIV test even if you didn't take PEP

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