The first health clinic for gay and bisexual men in the Fraser Health region has opened in New Westminster.
A collaboration between the health authority and Health Initiative for Men (HIM), the clinic opened officially at 40 Begbie St. last week.
The location was chosen after HIM data found almost a third of clients using their Commercial Drive clinic and 20 per cent of clients using the Davie Street clinic were Fraser residents.
In 2013, more than half the new diagnoses of HIV and syphilis in Fraser residents were in gay and bisexual men.
The 2014 Provincial Health Officer’s report, HIV, Stigma and Society,also supported the need for tailored services across B.C. to address the HIV epidemic among this population.
“We are pleased with the support received for this clinic so far, and hope it makes getting tested and treated for sexually transmitted infections easier and more convenient for gay and bisexual men, as well as others living in the area,” Fraser Health medical health officer Michelle Murti said in a press release.
HIM sexual health centres have a significant impact on STI testing, accounting for one out of every 20 cases diagnosed in the province, according to HIM board chair Dan Griffin.
The organization also engages the community through volunteering and a broad range of activities.
“The opening of this centre reflects the commitment of Fraser Health to a comprehensive strategy that addresses the complex drivers of our health,” Griffin said.
The New West clinic will serve all Fraser Health clients and provide specialized services for gay and bisexual men, with health authority nurses providing testing, counseling and treament alongside HIM staff and trained volunteers.
The clinic is open for booked and drop-in appointments Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information, visit checkhimout.ca.
