Those wanting to be tested can now make their own requests to IH labs
Getting tested for HIV just got easier for residents across the Interior Health region, now that on-demand testing is available at all IH laboratories.
As of today, patients can visit any IH lab and get an tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) without having to first visit their physician or nurse practitioner.
IH says patients can fill out a lab requisition on their own and take it to the lab, ask for the test or ask to have the test added to any existing blood work that is being ordered.
“Today, thanks to early diagnosis and advancements in treatment and care, HIV is a chronic, manageable condition,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “The first step is learning whether you have HIV, and that’s why I applaud Interior Health for making HIV testing more accessible for British Columbians.”
On-demand HIV testing began in the IH area in 2016 with an innovative partnership with Valley Medical Laboratories in the Okanagan. Based on the success of that program, the health authority has now expanded the service across the region.
“Interior Health is committed to providing accessible and patient-centered care for people in ways that respect their dignity and privacy,” said Doug Cochrane, IH board chairman.
“By eliminating barriers to testing, and enabling people to be tested on their own terms, we are making it easier for individuals who test positive for HIV to access the care they need.”