Group A Streptococcus detection now offered at several local service points

Tashi Farmilo

In a significant enhancement to preventive healthcare across Quebec, Health Minister Christian Dubé announced the expansion of Group A Streptococcus testing to numerous local service points throughout the province. Previously confined to hospitals, family medicine groups (GMFs), and pharmacies, the service now aims to facilitate easier access to essential health services, reducing reliance on hospital visits.

The rollout of this service began in December and has progressively expanded, with the plan to make it available across all local service points by this fall. To date, over 12,500 appointments have been booked through the Clic Santé platform, demonstrating the service's accessibility and the public's willingness to engage with more convenient healthcare options.

"The detection of streptococcus A comes as an addition to the many services already offered in local service points," Minister Dubé stated. "For families with young children, this is particularly good news. The aim of local service points is to bring services closer to the population across Quebec. Their implementation aligns perfectly with the goals of our Health Plan, which focuses on providing all Quebecers with an experience centred on accessibility and quality of care."

This initiative marks a continuation of the province's efforts to utilize infrastructure developed during the pandemic, such as the vaccination centres, which have been adapted to serve broader healthcare needs. Besides streptococcus A testing, these centres offer vaccinations for COVID-19, influenza, and shingles, detection of COVID-19 and influenza, distribution of rapid COVID-19 tests, and, since February 5, screening for colorectal cancer.

With symptoms of streptococcus A, including severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen neck glands, timely and accessible testing is crucial, particularly for vulnerable populations like young children who may also experience nausea and abdominal pain. This expansion not only meets immediate health needs, but also illustrates Quebec's commitment to enhancing the efficiency and reach of its healthcare services. To make an appointment at a local service point, visit www.clicsante.ca.

Photo caption: Group A Streptococcus detection is now available at numerous local service points throughout Quebec, enhancing the existing services for sampling, screening, and vaccination, and improving access to preventive health services for the population, particularly through easier appointment scheduling. 

Photo credit: Courtesy of www.clicsante.ca.