Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2021
266. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health the findings of a pilot service offering free at-home test kits for STI screening to Dublin, Cork and Kerry; and his plans to make this a permanent nationwide service. [56524/21]
View answerIntegrating an online STI testing service with established public STI clinics is an effective, efficient way to increase access to and capacity for STI testing services, allowing asymptomatic individuals to use the online platform and test for STIs in the comfort of their own homes. Individuals who require further testing and treatment, can be referred to and seen in the clinical setting, ensuring a seamless individual experience.
The integrated online STI testing service is in line with the "hub and spoke" model of care proposed for Sexual Health services in the national Sexual Health Strategy whereby the most complex cases are managed within the "hub" and less complex cases are managed in the "spokes". For this service, those with the least complex sexual health needs can appropriately self-manage and have control of their sexual health needs.
The pilot service offering free online STI testing in Dublin, Cork and Limerick that was funded by the Sláintecare Integration Fund was oversubscribed due to unprecedented demand. €3m of new funding has been provided in Budget 2022 to the HSE to expand the service on a permanent basis.
