Feedback

How to Access On-Demand STI Testing in British Columbia: A Comprehensive Guide for Canadian Residents

In today’s fast-paced world, managing your health is more important than ever. Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a crucial part of maintaining it. For residents of British Columbia, the On-Demand STI Testing service offers a convenient and private way to get tested without the need to visit a healthcare provider. This guide is designed to help you navigate the process, from understanding what will be tested to how to access your results, ensuring you can manage your sexual health with confidence.

Step 1: Understanding the On-Demand STI Testing Service

What is On-Demand STI Testing?
On-Demand STI Testing is a service provided by Interior Health that allows individuals to get tested for common sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, and Syphilis. This service is particularly useful for those who want to undergo regular STI checkups, have had a change in their sexual activities, or are simply seeking peace of mind.

Who Should Use This Service?
On-Demand STI Testing is recommended if:

• It’s part of your regular STI checkup (recommended every 3-6 months).
• You’ve had new or casual sexual partners.
• You’ve had a change in your sexual activities.

Who Should NOT Use This Service?
You should see a healthcare provider instead of using On-Demand STI Testing if:

• You are experiencing symptoms that could indicate an STI.
• You’ve had recent sexual contact with someone who has tested positive for an STI.
• You need to access HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) or emergency contraception.
• You wish to consult with a nurse or doctor for other health concerns.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Test

What Will Be Tested?
The standard On-Demand STI Testing includes tests for:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• HIV
• Syphilis

When Should You Get Tested?
If you are concerned about a specific sexual contact, it’s recommended to get tested at both 3 weeks and 3 months following the contact. Testing too soon after exposure may not yield accurate results.

Step 3: Completing the Lab Form

To get started with On-Demand STI Testing, follow these steps:

Fill Out the Lab Form

• Indicate the preselected tests you wish to undergo.
• If you want to add optional tests based on your sexual activities, select from the following:
  • Throat Swab: For oral contact with a partner’s genitals or a shared sex toy.
  • Vaginal Swab: For vaginal contact with a partner’s genitals or a shared sex toy.
  • Rectal Swab: For anal contact with a partner’s genitals or a shared sex toy.
• You can choose to cross out any test(s) you don’t want.

Submit the Form

• Return the completed lab form to the lab assistant.
• The lab assistant will collect your blood sample and provide instructions for collecting your own urine and/or swab samples in the bathroom. Detailed instructions for swab collection are posted in the bathroom.

Important: You will not see a nurse or doctor during this process.

Step 4: Getting Your Results

After completing your test, your results will be processed, and you can access them through the following methods:

Positive Results:
If any of your tests are positive, a nurse will contact you to provide follow-up care and connect you with a healthcare provider for treatment.

Negative Results:
If your results are negative, you will not be contacted. You can access your results through:

• My Health Portal for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea results.
• Health Gateway for all test results at www.healthgateway.gov.bc.ca.
• Phone: Call 1-866-766-7736 two weeks after your laboratory visit for HIV and Syphilis results.
• Regular Healthcare Provider: You can also follow up with your regular healthcare provider.

Note: Do not call the lab that collected your tests, as they will not have your results.

Step 5: Troubleshooting and Common Questions

What if I need to change my information?
If there’s any change in your information after submitting your form, contact the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) immediately via email at gaming.registration@gov.bc.ca.

What if I have questions about my sexual health?
If you wish to speak with a healthcare provider about your sexual health, symptoms, or any concerns, call Healthlink BC at 8-1-1. Nurses are available 24 hours a day, and you can also speak to a dietitian or pharmacist during specified hours.

What if I am hearing impaired?
Call 7-1-1 to access services if you are hearing impaired.