The federal government has announced a $5 million investment to expand access to HIV self-testing and peer-based support services across Canada, with a focus on communities facing the greatest barriers to testing and care. The funding was announced on September 10 by Minister of Health Mark Holland.
The initiative aims to increase the availability of HIV self-test kits, which allow individuals to test for HIV in private and receive results within minutes. Peer support programs will also be expanded to provide counseling and linkage to care for those who test positive.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, an estimated 1 in 8 people living with HIV in Canada are unaware of their status. Expanding self-testing is seen as a critical tool to reach undiagnosed individuals and connect them with treatment.
The funding will be distributed to community-based organizations and health authorities over the coming months, with priority given to regions with higher rates of new infections and limited access to traditional testing services.
