New Ontario guidelines for providers offering HIV testing

Advisory Alert

March 29, 2023

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To: Local Health System Partners

FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

Please see the attached memo, shared with Public Health from the Ministry of Health, regarding the new Ontario guidelines for providers offering HIV testing.

These guidelines were developed with the goal of reaching and exceeding the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target in Ontario. This would mean that 95% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status, 95% of all people diagnosed with HIV will receive antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of all people on antiretroviral therapy will be virally suppressed by 2025.

The guidelines recommend streamlined testing and counselling for those at risk of HIV with a stronger focus on identifying symptoms of acute and chronic HIV, and routine testing for members of populations with higher rates of HIV. Additionally, they support equitable access to prevention strategies for people at risk of HIV infection and access to culturally relevant services and treatment for those with HIV.

The guidelines also reduce the current window period for diagnosing HIV from three months to six weeks to reflect advances in testing technologies.

The attached guidelines were developed by the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario (PHO), Ontario College of Family Physicians and Ontario-based clinicians and testing providers. The testing guidelines are attached and available at www.hivtestingontario.ca.

Health care practitioners are encouraged to call the Sexual Health Clinic at 705.522.9200, extension 482, with any questions or concerns related to HIV testing, confirmed cases, and contact management.

Sincerely,

Original Signed By

Dr. Penny Sutcliffe
Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer

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This item was last modified on March 29, 2023