Clinic FAQ

1. Where is the clinic located?

Clinics are available onsite at your local Porcupine Health Unit office (see “Contact Us” section for address). We also offer clinics in most area high schools.

2. Does it cost anything to come to the clinic?

Counselling and testing services offered at the clinic are free of charge; however, you will need to present your valid Ontario Health Card to each visit. Please see our “Price List” section for items offered at low cost.

3. Who will know that I have been at the clinic?

All visits to the clinic are confidential. This mean that they will not be discussed with anyone outside of the clinic. Only you and the clinic staff will know about your visits. All records are locked in the clinic and no information is released without your consent.

4. Who will I see in the clinic?

Upon arrival to the Porcupine Health Unit you must present yourself to the receptionist and tell her that you are here for the clinic. She will then direct you to the Sexual Health staff where they will establish the reason for your visit. The nurse will offer appropriate counseling and/or referrals.

5. Is it true that birth control is cheap at the clinic? I don’t have a drug plan.

Yes. Our goal is to make contraception affordable. See our “Price List” section for a detailed list of all items available at minimal or no cost.

6. I am 16 years old and worried about being pregnant. Do I have to bring my mom with me to the clinic?

All visits to the clinic are confidential. This means that they will not be discussed with anyone outside of the clinic. All you need to bring with you is your Health Card.

7. I have a male doctor. I feel really uncomfortable getting my Pap test done by him. Can I come to the clinic?

Yes, any female can call to make an appointment for a Pap test at our clinic.

8. Can I just come to the clinic to get free condoms?

Yes, we have free condoms at reception or ask the receptionist for a bag – no questions asked.

9. I think my daughter is having sex. Can I bring her to the clinic?

Absolutely! You can bring her to the clinic. Often clients bring a support person with them, or she can come by herself.

10. What STIs can I be examined and tested for at the clinic?

Clients can be tested for Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas, hepatitis, syphilis and HIV. Some STIs are tested through a swab or urine test; others are tested through blood. Test results take approximately 1-2 weeks.

If you are concerned by either genital warts or genital herpes, and have a sore or bump, our nurses will examine you and refer to clinic physicians or nurse practitioners to discuss diagnosis and treatment.

11. I want to start on the pill. What do I do?

You may see your family physician for a prescription for birth control. You can also call the clinic to book an appointment with the physician or nurse practitioner for a prescription. Once the prescription is written you can purchase birth control in our clinic at a low cost.

Last reviewed: June 7, 2009