On-demand STI testing launches at Cowichan District Hospital - Island Health

People in Fort St. James now have easier access to routine sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing through Northern Health’s (NH) on-demand STI testing service. The service provides a low-barrier, self-directed option for routine STI screening without the need to first see a doctor or nurse. Testing is available for syphilis, HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Originally launched in Prince George, Prince Rupert, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, and Quesnel, the program has helped hundreds of clients access routine STI testing. Fort St James is now the sixth Northern Health community to offer the service. The expansion will improve access to STI screening for people living in Fort St James and surrounding communities, including Nak’azdli Whut’en, Tl’azt’en Nation, Binche Whut’en, Yekooche First Nation, and Takla First Nation. Early testing can help identify and treat infections sooner, helping individuals stay healthy and reduce the spread of STIs in the community. Expanding this service to Fort St. James is another step toward reducing barriers to testing, particularly in smaller and rural communities.