National Rapid TLC: Testing and Linkage to Care

A nationwide test, treat, and connect intervention will be implemented to reach 2,500 individuals attending clinics for routine sexually transmitted and blood-borne infection (STBBI) testing. The intervention will provide opportunities for immediate treatment and culturally appropriate care for hepatitis C virus (HCV), chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV.

The Xpert HIV-1 Qual XC test performance evaluation will be conducted in community-based point-of-care (POC) settings across Canada to reach up to 1,000 individuals presenting for HIV testing, including those with suspected HIV infection, those at high risk of HIV acquisition, and individuals known to be living with HIV. The evaluation will provide opportunities for newly diagnosed individuals to receive immediate treatment and culturally appropriate HIV care.

Critical to the success of this initiative is the engagement and support of people with lived experience, peer navigators, and leaders from community-based organizations in all aspects of the work through shared leadership, collaboration, and joint decision-making. This approach will help address barriers to testing, diagnosis, and care experienced by underserved and undiagnosed populations in inner-city, remote, rural, and isolated communities.

All participating sites will use Health Canada-approved rapid antibody point-of-care tests to screen for HIV, combined HIV/syphilis, and/or HCV.

All investigational and licensed molecular point-of-care testing (POCT) devices utilize the GeneXpert (GX) Instrument System to automate and integrate sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and target sequence detection in simple and complex specimens using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The system consists of an instrument, a personal computer, and preloaded software for performing tests and reviewing results. Testing requires the use of single-use disposable GeneXpert cartridges containing the RT-PCR reagents and supporting all RT-PCR processes. The self-contained cartridge design minimizes the risk of cross-contamination between samples.

The Xpert HIV-1 Qual XC assay includes reagents for the detection of HIV-1 total nucleic acids, as well as an internal control to verify adequate target processing and monitor for the presence of inhibitors during the reverse transcription and PCR reactions. The Probe Check Control (PCC) verifies reagent rehydration, PCR tube filling within the cartridge, probe integrity, and dye stability.

Investigational and Licensed POCT Devices

• Xpert® HIV-1 Qual XC [investigational]
• Xpert® HIV-1 VL XC [licensed]
• Xpert® CT/NG [licensed]
• Xpert® HCV VL Fingerstick [licensed]
• Xpert® HPV [licensed]