PLUS! Testing Model

PLUS! All -Genders HIV and STI Testing Initiative

PLUS! is an all-genders peer-led initiative designed to increase access to HIV/HCV testing and prevention services for sexual and gender minorities (2SLGBTQIA+) in British Columbia. By partnering with healthcare agencies, peer groups, and local communities, PLUS! aims to bridge gaps in service availability, particularly where gaps are prominent—such as in rural, small-urban, and Indigenous communities, as well as in major urban centers where resources are limited, and where there are communities disproportionately impacted by HIV.

Background

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, local Health Authorities in BC were required to re-deploy nurses and doctors, resulting in the closure of several clinics providing HIV and HCV testing, and reducing sexual health services. This service interruption was an opportunity for HIM to leverage our existing partnerships, and acumen in public health intervention to develop PLUS! (People Like Us) and lead the coordination of sexual health services across BC.

This initiative was developed from community consultation and an extensive Gender Audit. Where HIM has historically focused on services for gay, bisexual, and queer men, as well as other men who have sex with men, and trans and gender diverse folks—PLUS! is for all genders and aims to promote testing beyond gender limits.

Objectives

The PLUS! Initiative aims to:

1. Increase access to HIV/HCV testing and prevention options across the province and
2. Increase knowledgeable inter-connection between:
   – People who experience the disproportionate burden of HIV/HCV, and;
   – Stakeholders such as: Healthcare providers, community organizations, local services, Indigenous leadership, and community champions.