Northern Health launches ‘on-demand’ STI tests at South Peace hospitals

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — “On-demand” testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) is now available at five Northern Health facilities, including two in the South Peace.

According to an announcement from Northern Health, “on-demand” testing for STIs became available within the health authority’s coverage area on Monday, April 7th.

In the Peace region, the service is available via lab appointment at the Dawson Creek and District Hospital and Chetwynd General Hospital. 

The other three facilities currently offering the testing services are located in Prince George, Prince Rupert and Quesnel.

“This free service is a quick and easy way to test for sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV with no need to see a doctor or nurse,” the announcement reads. 

“If test results come back positive and an individual requires treatment, a nurse will contact them.”

“On-demand” testing is intended to be used for regular STI checkups, which Northern Health recommends people get every three to six months, and for people who have had recent changes to their sexual activity or new sexual partners.

People are encouraged to avoid “on-demand” testing if they have symptoms of an STI, require treatment due to recent exposure to one, need HIV post-exposure medication or emergency contraceptives, can’t collect their own swabs if required or would prefer to deal with a doctor or nurse.

To book a lab appointment for a test, call 1-888-223-1530. Online booking is also available through HealthElife.