Needle Syringe Program
We provide free sterile injecting equipment from a self-service (fit pack) dispenser located on level 3 near reception.
For further information about injecting and NSP services click here.
People Who Inject Drugs
You can have all of your STI, HIV, and hepatitis testing and treatment done free at SSHC. We provide a non-judgemental service and offer harm reduction support if needed.<span style=”color: #0000ff;”><u>Time To Test?</u></span>
We are a secondary NSP service and part of the NSW Needle Syringe Program (NSP). We provide free sterile injecting equipment via a self-service (fit pack) dispenser located on Level 3 just near the lift and reception.
Time to Test
If you think you might have been at risk for an STI or HIV please complete our Time To Test? online risk assessment.
This will help us work out if we are the best place to meet your needs. we’ll ask you a few questions about your recent sexual activity and at the end we’ll tell you what to do next.
General Clinic
We provide you with testing, treatment and management of sexually transmissible infections (STIs), including HIV.
Check the opening hours on our website.
Please book an appointment with us by calling (02) 9382 7440.
MyCheck
We have a fast, easy and convenient new testing option available – MyCheck!
Test at a pathology service near you without needing to attend the clinic.
To use MyCheck you must:
• Be over 18 years of age
• Be an existing SSHC client (have a patient ID number)
• Have NO symptoms
SSHC will manage all your results and provide treatment if needed.
Call (02) 9382 7440 and ask for MyCheck.
Xpress
In a hurry and want a quick STI test? Xpress clinic is quicker than the general clinic because you won’t get a physical examination – especially convenient for people who have to test frequently.
You can only use Xpress if you do not have symptoms. You must be able to read and understand English well to attend Xpress clinic.
Before you make an appointment, check if you are eligible using our Time To Test? online risk assessment tool. This will help us work out if we are the best place to meet your needs. We’ll ask you a few questions about your recent sexual activity and at the end, we’ll tell you what to do next.
Counselling
Our Counselling Unit provides counselling services to individuals for sexual health related concerns such as:
- Helping you change behaviours that can put you at risk of getting HIV or an STI
- Coping with a diagnosis of HIV or an STI
- Negotiating sexual relationships with partners
- Helping you to contact sexual partners if you are diagnosed with HIV or an STI (contact tracing).
- If your concerns do not fit with the services offered by us, we will be happy to help you find a more appropriate service.
Call us on 9382 7440 if you would like to make an appointment with a counsellor or call NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.
This is not a crisis service.
If you are in crisis please call Lifeline (11 13 14), Mental Health Line (1800 011 511) or 000
General Practice (GP) or other testing options
Most STI and HIV testing in NSW is conducted through GPs. It’s a good idea for everyone who is sexually active to get a regular check-up. We recommend you see a GP for this.
Click here for a referral letter you can take to your GP. Or explore other testing options.
If you want help in finding a local doctor or you would like further information, talk to sexual health nurse at the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.
Dried Blood Spot Testing (DBS)
A DBS test is a free, easy and accurate way to test for HIV and/or hepatitis C without having to come into the clinic.
The DBS test works by putting a few drops of blood from your finger on a test card and leaving to dry.
Check out the DBS website for detailed instructions and information on how to order.
FAQS
Have questions about injecting drugs? No worries, we’ve got answers!
Do I need to disclose that I inject drugs?
Our team here offers non-judgemental care for people who inject drugs. We recommend you let us know if you are injecting drugs so we can provide you with the most appropriate clinical care and support if needed.
Do you have a needle exchange program?
Yes, you can access free fitpacks from a dispenser on level 3 near the registration desk. You don’t need to register at reception to take a fit pack and it is in a discreet location.
Can I get Hep C treatment?
Yes, Hep C is now curable! You may contact us to discuss testing and treatment options.
Do you have free counselling for drug or alcohol use?
Yes. While not all drug use is problematic for all people, if it is causing difficulties in your life we are here to help you. Our counselling team are able to support you to cut down your use, or can refer you to drug and alcohol services if helpful.