Southeast Public Health temporarily reduces sexual health services during team merger

Hours could be reduced at the Kingston clinic, others will have their programs suspended or hours reduced.

Southeast Public Health (SEPH) is temporarily reducing some sexual health services as it merges teams across the southeast region. The changes take effect on October 27. Clinics in Gananoque, Perth, and Carleton Place will be paused, while hours in Kemptville and Almonte will be reduced. Services in Kingston and Belleville may also see reduced hours.

SEPH is working to integrate staff from previous local agencies into region-wide teams. The goal is to ensure all residents have equitable and consistent public health services.

Dr. Ethan Toumishey, SEPH’s Deputy Medical Officer of Health for the West region, said the service adjustments give staff time to transition while maintaining essential public health work.

Sexual health services continue to be offered at other SEPH locations. Residents can check local clinic hours and services online for the Hastings Prince Edward, Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington, and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark regions.

For urgent sexual health care, residents are advised to contact their primary care provider, a walk-in clinic, or virtual care. Free STI and HIV testing is also available through GetaKit.ca.

Questions can be directed to SEPH’s Sexual Health Team at 613-345-5685 ext. 2005.