Options has really been the only option for my teenagers and their friends through their high school years. Many teens don’t want to see their parents doctor for sexual health concerns, or simply don’t have a GP. The doctor shortage combined with closed drop in clinics, means the Options is essential for access to sexual health care in Nelson. There is no where else to go.
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the potential closure of sexual health clinics within Fraser Health. These clinics play a vital role in our community, providing accessible and essential sexual and reproductive health services that many residents rely on.
Closing these clinics would have far-reaching and detrimental consequences:
-Increase in Untreated STIs: Without these clinics, many individuals may delay or forego testing and treatment due to barriers like cost, stigma, or lack of nearby services. This could lead to a rise in untreated sexually transmitted infections, which can have severe long-term health implications and contribute to broader public health challenges.
-Overburdened Emergency Rooms and Doctors’ Offices: Fraser Health clinics currently serve as a specialized and efficient resource for STI testing, treatment, and other sexual health concerns. Shutting them down would force patients to seek care in emergency rooms or primary care offices, both of which are already strained. This shift would compromise the quality and timeliness of care for all patients. Additionally, we are facing a doctor shortage in BC and many of our residents are without a family physician they can go to for testing or resources.
-Loss of Access to Comprehensive Care: Beyond STI services, these clinics provide essential resources like birth control, cervical screenings, and sexual health education. For many marginalized or low-income individuals, these clinics are their only accessible and confidential source for such care. Losing this access could lead to higher rates of unintended pregnancies and preventable health issues.
-Negative Impact on Public Health Outcomes: Sexual health is a cornerstone of community health. These clinics play a pivotal role in preventing the spread of infections, reducing healthcare costs through early intervention, and promoting overall well-being. Their closure could lead to significant public health setbacks.
I strongly urge you to reconsider any plans to close these critical clinics. Investing in sexual health services is an investment in the health of our community and upholds Fraser Health’s commitment to accessible and equitable care.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter
Options clinics provide crucial services for so many members of the community. I have been on a waitlist for a doctor since I moved to Nelson three years ago, and I don't imagine I will get one. Walk-in clinics have recently closed as well. Options is one of the only places that people can get care on short notice and it is clear that these services are needed as the clinic is always busy. I have used their services several times, and it gives me peace of mind to know that it is accessible weekly, without an appointment. I know that many of my friends also rely on Options clinics to seek medical attention. Where are people supposed to go if these clinics close as well? The emergency rooms are already overwhelmed. Small communities rely so much on Options clinics and it would be shocking to me if our government refuses to support such a critical resource for the people of British Columbia.
I was fortunate to have access to the Options for Sexual Health clinics when I needed information to make decisions about my own sexual health. I went into the clinic to discuss birth control options. I got an IUD inserted with the help of the clinic. The Options for Sexual Health clinic is where I got non-judgemental, evidence based information. The staff and volunteers at the clinic was so kind and helpful. I felt safe to discuss whatever questions or concerns I had in mind without negative judgement. The clinics should be funded and kept open because they help provide valuable services and resources that people deserve access to.
We have many clients, some young parents, other clients with limited resources, and of course the provincial shortage of doctors and closure of walk-in clinics, that already limit access to healthcare. We have observed many outbreaks over the years that were managed by combined efforts of public health education and Options nurses for STI control, unplanned pregnancies etc. This closure will delay even more people from accessing needed services, resulting in untreated infections with potential for outbreaks, stress for decisions about unplanned pregnancies and unnecessary stress/risks for already at risk clients.
Especially in the current healthcare environment, I feel this is a direct hit to healthcare services that has the potential of making a significant impact on our population's health, mentally as well as physically.
This is not the time, nor the agency, to cut services from.
Please reconsider.
These clinics are crucial for the sexual health of our citizens.
