Nova Scotia expands at-home STI testing program to include HIV
Nova Scotia Health is making it easier for people across the province to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with the expansion of the STI Care Now program. This program, which was initially launched as a pilot last August, will now offer free at-home STI tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV to residents anywhere in Nova Scotia.
Dr. Todd Hatchette, the medical director for the program, shared that early data from the pilot, which focused on chlamydia and gonorrhea testing, has been successful. “To date, we’ve had almost 3,000 kits mailed out and identified 122 positive cases,” he stated in an interview. This demonstrates the program’s ability to reach individuals, detect STIs, and provide necessary treatment.
The province highlighted that HIV self-testing kits can provide results within a minute, while tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea are conducted in a lab once the kits are returned by mail. Following the testing, patients are contacted by a pharmacist to discuss next steps or referred to a physician for further care if needed.
Nova Scotians who are interested in participating can check their eligibility and request a test kit through Nova Scotia Health’s website. Additionally, individuals can complete a consultation for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication used to prevent HIV transmission through sexual activity or intravenous drug use.
While PrEP is covered by many private insurance plans and listed as an exception drug in Nova Scotia’s Pharmacare program, there is ongoing advocacy for broader coverage to make it more accessible to individuals at risk of contracting HIV. Hatchette acknowledged the need for more inclusive coverage but noted that current policies remain unchanged.
In recent years, STI rates, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV, have been on the rise in Nova Scotia. For instance, there were 359 reported cases of gonorrhea in 2023, the highest number since 2018, and a significant increase in chlamydia cases from 2022 to 2023. With 33 new HIV cases reported in 2023, it was the highest number in seven years.
By expanding access to testing and treatment, the province aims to decrease STI transmission rates and empower Nova Scotians to prioritize their sexual health. Hatchette emphasized that the program’s goal is to provide convenient testing options for residents who may face barriers in accessing traditional healthcare settings.
Looking ahead, the province hopes to introduce an at-home test for syphilis in the future, pending further research and development. This expansion of the STI Care Now program aligns with Nova Scotia Health’s commitment to advancing public health initiatives and promoting overall well-being in the community.
