Take part in Canada’s first HIV self-test study
Nine Circles Community Health Centre is currently accepting participants for an important research study about the INSTI HIV Self-Test in Canada funded by The CIHR Centre for REACH 3.0 and the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR).
This study will include 1,000 participants from key priority populations in Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Victoria, and will be conducted for 12 to 16 weeks per location. 150 participants will be from Winnipeg.
If you’re selected to take part, you’ll be asked to participate in a confidential 45-60 min testing session with a health care professional. Participants will be compensated for their time. During the session, you’ll help to evaluate the INSTI HIV Self-Test device’s performance, including performing steps to use the device and interpreting your test results as well as interpreting mock test results.
To participate, set up a testing appointment with reception staff by phone (204-940-6000) or in person and tell them you’re interested in the study. A research assistant will follow up with more details and ensure you qualify. Spots are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the study?
The purpose of this study is to observe if a lay person, unassisted by a health care worker, is able to perform an HIV test on themselves using the INSTI HIV Self-Test. This study will help to determine if the INSTI HIV Self-Test instructions are adequate or whether further changes are required for the Canadian public.
Why is this study important?
HIV is on the rise in Canada. Currently, 14% of people with HIV are undiagnosed and not aware of their status. Getting tested regularly is the only way to know your status and puts you in control of your overall health. Earlier diagnosis of HIV can link you to care and treatment more quickly.
HIV self-testing has proven to be a game-changer in countries where it is available, resulting in improved HIV diagnosis rates, improved health of those with HIV, and a decrease in the transmission of HIV. According to the World Health Organization, HIV self-testing provides an effective, safe and convenient way for you to test for HIV. Self-testing gives you more control over when, where and how frequently you test for HIV and may include opportunities to test at home.
Self testing is not currently available in Canada. This study is part of the approval process.
Who qualifies for the study?
Participants:
- must access HIV testing through our STI program (booked appointment or walk-in clinic)
- must be over 18 years of age
- must be able to read and speak English
- must sign an informed consent form
- must be willing to provide a blood sample by finger prick and by blood draw
- cannot be a client of one of our physicians
- cannot be diagnosed with HIV or be on PrEP
- cannot be a practicing medical professional or someone that conducts HIV testing with INSTI tests
- cannot have used a rapid test for self-testing previously
When will study appointments be taking place?
For the duration of the study, participants will be booked into testing appointments on Mondays and Fridays. There will be a total of 4 spots available on each day. There will also be 5 spots available during our walk-in STI Testing clinic on Wednesdays on a first-come, first-served basis.
Questions?
For more information, speak with our receptionists by calling 204-940-6000 or by stopping by the front desk at 705 Broadway. They will connect you with the Research Assistants, who can provide more details, and determine whether you qualify.
