Grant: Project Grant

Syphilis has reemerged as a serious public health concern in Canada, especially in rural, remote, and small urban communities. People who use drugs, take part in survival sex work, or do not have stable housing are at higher risk of infection and often face barriers to getting tested. While syphilis can be cured, delays in testing and treatment can cause serious health problems and allow the infection to spread further. Our team is working to solve this problem by bringing care directly to people who need it most. We use a new approach that combines rapid syphilis tests with public health outreach. Instead of asking people to visit a clinic and wait for results, public health nurses visit community settings, provide on-site testing, and immediately administer treatment when needed. Over the past two years, this outreach model of care has expanded across Ontario, with eight public health units partnering with 83 community-based organizations. Together, nearly 1,500 rapid tests have been provided to individuals who often struggle to access care, enabling many to receive treatment quickly. Next, we want to learn two things: (1) how to grow this model to reach more people and places that need it most by integrating it into routine public health programs, and (2) whether the benefits of stopping new infections outweigh the costs. To achieve this, we are collecting data, listening to community members, and collaborating with individuals who have lived experience to ensure we are meeting their needs. Ultimately, our research will provide public health leaders with the evidence they need to reduce syphilis rates, understand potential cost savings, and promote health equity for underserved populations across Canada.