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On-demand STI testing

On-demand Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing is a quick and easy way to test for sexually transmitted infections with no need to see a doctor or a nurse. The testing is free and if you need to be treated, a nurse will contact you.

What is on-demand testing?

An easy test for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV without seeing a doctor or nurse. Just book an appointment at a Northern Health lab.

When should you use on-demand STI testing?

  • As part of your regular STI checkup, recommended every 3-6 months.
  • You’ve had a change in your sexual activities or when you have new sexual partners.

When should you not use on-demand STI testing?

Do not book on-demand STI testing if you:

  • Have symptoms of an STI.
  • Require treatment due to recent exposure to an STI.
  • Need HIV post-exposure prophylaxis or emergency contraception.
  • Are unable to collect your own swabs (if needed).
  • Would like to speak to a doctor or a nurse for any other reason.

What NH labs offer on-demand STI testing?

Clients can access on-demand STI testing at:

How to book an on-demand STI test

  • To book a lab appointment call 1-888-223-1530.
  • NH Check In. Patients are encouraged to use the NH Check In app to review current wait times, reserve a spot in line for drop-in services, and to notify the lab that they have arrived at the facility.
  • Online booking is available through HealthElife.

If you need to change or cancel your online booked appointment call: 1-888-223-1530.

What to expect at your appointment

  • Ask for “on-demand” STI testing when you arrive, show your BC Services Card, or provide your Personal Health Number.
  • You will be given an information sheet and a lab form to fill out at the appointment.
  • You will not be seen by a nurse or a doctor.

Testing process:

  • A lab assistant will take a blood sample for syphilis and HIV testing.
  • You will be given a container for a urine sample for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing (make sure you do not void for 1-2 hours prior to your appointment).
  • Optional swabs (throat, vaginal, rectal) are available for self-collection as needed. The lab will provide you these swabs for collection at the time of appointment.

Getting your results

  • If your test(s) are positive you will be contacted by a nurse who will provide follow-up care and help arrange for any necessary treatment.  
  • You will NOT be contacted if your test(s) are negative.

You can access your results in the following ways:

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is on-demand STI testing?

On-demand STI testing is a service available for individuals seeking routine testing for STIs.

This service is intended for those who do not have symptoms of an STI and do not need to speak with a health care provider.

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What tests are available through on-demand STI testing?

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV testing are all available through on-demand STI testing.

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Is there a cost to STI testing?

Testing is free.

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How long will it take to get my results?

Most results will be available within 1-2 weeks.

You will be contacted if your results are positive. A nurse will contact you to provide information and arrange for free treatment.

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How can I access my test results?

Do not call the lab that collected the sample, they will not have your results.

You can access your results by:

  • HealthELife for chlamydia and gonorrhea results.
  • Health Gateway for all results.
  • Phone 1-855-755-3555 2 weeks after your lab visit for HIV and syphilis results (do not call prior to 2 weeks as your results will not be available yet).
  • Following up with your regular health care provider. 
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I would like to talk to a health care provider, what do I do?

You can contact any of the following to book an appointment with a provider:

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I had a possible exposure to an STI or had unprotected sex, when can I test?

If you test too soon after an exposure to an STI, you may not get accurate results. If you are concerned about a specific sexual contact, we recommend testing at 3 weeks AND 3 months following contact.  

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