Online STI testing is available on the Island, and is an option many first-time testers are choosing.
In 2016 Vancouver Island Health Authority started a trial with online testing and have found that one-in-five people over 30 using the service are getting tested for the first time. The patients are also 67 per cent male, who, according to Dr. Dee Hoyano, a VIHA medical health officer, are less likely than females to get tested.
“One of the things that we know is that in general more women get STI testing than men, and GetCheckedOnline has been quite successful in getting men to use the service,” Hoyano said. “That’s something that's quite unique about the way this service is offered.”
To use the service patients can sign up online, provide information on STI risk, then provide samples at a participating lab location.
“What it saves you is the fact that you don’t have to go see a doctor to get that lab work requested. You still go to a lab, but most labs you can drop in so you don’t have to have a specific appointment time in most circumstances,” Hoyano said.
“The other thing that people really like about the service is it is more privacy. You don’t have to give your real name and you don’t have to have a health care number as well. Some people really prefer that because it adds a level of privacy.”
According to Hoyano, results from testing can be viewed online. If the tests come back negative, it will say online, if they’re positive it will say you need to come in to a clinic for more information.