This PHO Rounds will present an innovative health systems strategy that was supported by the Locally Driven Collaborative Projects (LDCP) program to increase access to preventative HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) testing, using an online system: GetaKit.ca.
Through GetaKit, persons can obtain clinically indicated STI/HIV tests including requisitions for lab-based tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis C and HIV. The system operates using a clinician-developed algorithm, which recommends tests and other preventative services, such as vaccinations, HIV prevention, and contraception based on reported risk practices and public health guidelines. Requests for testing and test results are reviewed and managed by GetaKit clinicians. Services are run in collaboration with public health units to facilitate local access to clinical assessment, treatment, or referrals.
Intended audience: Public health physicians, public health nurses and nurse practitioners, STBBI case managers, Medical Officers of Health (MOH) and Assistant Medical Officer of Health (AMOH), public health unit (PHU) and community health staff working in STBBI.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe the testing and sexual health services available through GetaKit.ca
- Identify the functionality of the GetaKit algorithm to determine clinically relevant STI/HIV testing
- Examine the potential benefits of this online platform to facilitate access to preventative STI/HIV testing
Presenter(s): Patrick O’Byrne
Patrick O’Byrne, NP, PhD, is a Nurse Practitioner with Ottawa Public Health, a Full Professor of Nursing at the University of Ottawa, and the Principal Investigator for GetaKit. Dr. O’Byrne’s clinical and research work focus on the prevention and diagnoses of sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.
Accreditation
Public Health Ontario Rounds are a self-approved group learning activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). In order to receive written documentation for Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, please check “Yes” beside the question “Do you require CME credits?” on the registration form.
College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Affiliate Members may count RCPSC credits toward their Mainpro+ credit requirements. All other CFPC members may claim up to 50 Certified credits per cycle for participation in RCPSC MOC Section 1 accredited activities.
PHO Rounds are also approved by the Council of Professional Experience for professional development hours (PDHs) for members of the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).
For more information or for a record of registration for other Continuing Education purposes, please contact capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
Accessibility
Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
Register Here
