Description
Welcome to the HIV Tester Training for HIV Testers in Ontario!
Each HIV rapid testing site in Ontario is responsible for training its HIV test counsellors. The HIV and Hepatitis C Programs (HHP), in collaboration with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN), has updated and expanded Ontario’s guidance on HIV testing and counselling to ensure clear and consistent practices across sites.
These training materials are designed to support testing sites, providing user-friendly resources for onboarding new sites and training test counsellors.
Developed with input from experienced HIV test counsellors across Ontario and Public Health Ontario (PHO), these modules replace all previous guidance on HIV testing and counselling, including nominal and rapid testing.
At rapid point-of-care testing sites, HIV test counsellors:
✔ Learn about the client’s needs and help assess their risk of HIV
✔ Explain the test and ensure informed consent before testing
✔ Conduct rapid HIV testing and reporting
✔ Provide initial emotional, social, and medical support for reactive test results
✔ Offer support and referrals to services (e.g., prevention, HIV care, STBBI testing)
The eight training modules available here will equip counsellors with the skills to perform these tasks effectively in nominal testing settings.