STI Screening for Performers

Please find information for STI testing related to adult industry work.

Is TeleTest a PASS-certified organization?

TeleTest is *not* currently certified by PASS (Performer Availability Screening Service). However, lab tests arranged by TeleTest are consistent with the test requirements included on the PASS STI Test Panel.

What Tests are included on the panel?

There are two test panels, with and without site-specific swab testing.

Bloodwork

1. HIV 1/2 (4th Generation Antibody/Antigen)

2. Hepatitis B (Surface Antigen)

3. Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV Antibody)

4. Syphilis (Reverse Testing Algorithm)

Urine

1. Chlamydia (Aptima 2 PCR)

2. Gonorrhea (Aptima 2 PCR)

3. Trichomonas (Aptima 2 PCR)

4. Mycoplasma Genitalium

Swabs

1. Pharyngeal Gonorrhea/Chlamydia (Roche Cobas PCR)

2. Rectal Gonorrhea/Chlamydia (Roche Cobas PCR)

Testing

How can I get swab tests for site-specific screening?

Site-specific screening for anal and oral gonorrhea/chlamydia are sent to your mailing address. Each package contains a pair of swabs for each site and instructions on self-testing. If you prefer to complete testing with a doctor, you can take the swabs to any walk-in clinic and have a physician complete them on-site.

Does TeleTest complete an immunity screen for Hepatitis B with my initial testing?

Yes, with your initial screening, your doctor will include a screening test for immunity to Hepatitis B (Hepatitis Surface Antibody). Hepatitis B is a common STI that can be protected against through vaccination.

If you are immune to Hepatitis B, testing for Hepatitis B protein (i.e. Hepatitis B Antigen) isn't required. It's included on your panel as it is a requirement for PASS testing.

How long do swabs take to arrive?

We use Amazon as our shipping partner. Shipping times are dependent on seasonal variations, but generally speaking, shipping times are listed below:

• Ottawa-Toronto-Windsor - 2-3 Business Days

• North Ontario - 5-7 days

• PO Box - 10-14 days

How frequently can I be screened?

In accordance with guidelines from Public Health Ontario, you're entitled to complete STI screening if you've had new partner exposure, and have not had testing since you were active with your previous partner. If you engage in adult industry work, you're at higher risk of contracting an STI so it's important to screen regularly for health reasons. We offer non-judgemental, harm reduction monitoring.

Should I be on PreP?

You should strongly consider going on PreP if you engage in adult industry work. PreP is a medication that prevents HIV transmission if you're exposed to someone who has HIV. Although there are strict practices within the industry, you're inevitably at a higher risk of exposure.

TeleTest does not currently prescribe PreP, but there are a number of providers who do.

Why do some tests have additional fees?

TeleTest has recommended testing intervals for testing. Testing more frequently than recommended intervals is permitted, but you would incur 3rd party lab fees for these tests.

Maximum recommended intervals for screening:

• Hepatitis C - Every 3 months

• HIV/Syphilis - Monthly

If you have had confirmed exposure to any STI, please speak to your physician as these intervals are not applicable if you have had confirmed exposure.

Additionally, some lab tests are not covered with OHIP, including Mycoplasma genitalium.

What are approximate costs for 3rd party Lab fees?

Prices vary depending on the lab partner you use and change over time. Generally speaking, testing fees are listed below

• Hepatitis C - $35-$45

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen - $30-$45

Mycoplasma Genitalium

What labs offer Mycoplasma Genitalium testing?

Life Labs is the sole provider of M.Gen testing in Ontario; this service isn't available at Dynacare or Alpha labs. There have been cases where patients visited the lab with our paperwork for Mycoplasma Genitalium testing and were mistakenly asked to undergo large colony mycoplasma tests at these facilities.

It's crucial to understand that testing for large colony mycoplasma is different from Mycoplasma Genitalium testing.

If you see this result, it means the lab ordered the correct testing:

Correct Pending Lab Result

If you see this result, it means the lab made an error in selecting your testing:

Incorrect Pending Lab Result

While we don't control how the labs conduct their testing, if you're aware of common laboratory mistakes you can ask for reassurance at the time of your visit that they're ordering the right testing.

Test Types

What type of HIV testing is completed?

Public Health Ontario uses a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) for the qualitative detection of HIV-1 p24 antigen (Ag) and antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2.

If you have a CMIA test that is 'reactive' or 'indeterminate', the sample is then tested using the Geenius™ HIV-1/-2 Differential assay.

What time of urine tests does the labs use?

Life Labs and Dynacare use Aptima-2 Combo method for screening for gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomonas. The sensitivity of this method of collection is quoted at 94.7% for chlamydia and 91.3% for gonorrhea.