Increased access to HIV self-testing kits in Saskatchewan now available
Saskatchewan residents now have increased access to free Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) self-testing kits. By reducing barriers to accessing these kits, Saskatchewan health-care teams are at the forefront of actively working to help reduce the stigma of having and testing for HIV.
“Our government is committed to making HIV testing easier and more accessible for everyone in Saskatchewan,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. “By expanding access to free self-testing kits, we are empowering people to take control of their health, supporting earlier diagnosis, and helping to reduce the stigma often associated with HIV. This investment strengthens our ongoing work to ensure all residents can access the care and supports they need, when and where they need them.”
With the support of $48,000 in funding from the Government of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is making it easier to access free HIV self-testing kits; kits can be picked up by members of the public at a variety of SHA locations, community-based organizations, First Nations nursing stations, pharmacies, medical clinics and post-secondary institutions. A complete listing of locations providing HIV self-testing kits is available online here.
“The ability to self-test for HIV empowers individuals to take charge of their health in a private, convenient and accessible way,” said Jacqui Kennett-Peppler, Executive Director of Primary Health Care Southeast, SHA. “Quick and confidential testing supports early diagnosis, which is essential for connecting people to care, initiating treatment sooner and ultimately improving health outcomes. This initiative reflects our commitment to reducing barriers and promoting equitable access to care for all Saskatchewan residents.”
The HIV self-testing kits are a safe and reliable way to test for HIV at any time or location that is convenient. The kit only requires a small sample of blood from a fingertip to deliver accurate results in one minute. Positive results must be confirmed through additional in-person testing, which is free, confidential and available across the province.
Any community-based organization or partner interested in becoming a distribution site can complete the HIV Self-testing Kit Program Application Form. Information about HIV and testing, including testing locations, is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/human-immunodeficiency-virus-hiv/hiv-testing and www.saskatchewan.ca/hiv.
