Nova Scotia Health expands STI self-testing kits to include HIV screening

Nova Scotia is expanding its self-testing pilot program for sexually transmitted infections.

Nova Scotia’s health authority says it is expanding its STI self-testing kit program to include screening for HIV.

STI Care Now, which is a free and confidential program, already tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Nova Scotia Health says the goal of the initiative is to improve access to testing and treatment related to sexual health.

“STI Care Now represents a significant step forward in ensuring accessible, high-quality sexual health services for all,” said Dr. Todd Hatchette, medical director for STI Care Now, in a news release from the health authority.

“By providing timely diagnosis, treatment, and education, we can reduce the transmission of STIs and empower individuals with the knowledge they need to choose the preventative strategies that are right for them to ensure they stay healthy.”

People can request a self-testing kit by completing a form on the YourHealthNS app or on Nova Scotia Health’s website.

The STI Care Now team can also provide assessments for Pre-Exposure Prophlyaxis (PrEP), which is a medicine people at risk for HIV can take to help prevent getting the virus.

Nova Scotians who are eligible for a kit can have one mailed to them with a prepaid mailing label.

Nova Scotia Health says test results are shared by phone or email. Anyone who requires treatment will then be assessed virtually by the STI Care Now pharmacy team.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page