CBRC Test Now Buddies

Initiative Summary

Test Now Buddies provide support for gay, bisexual, trans, Two-Spirit and queer men and non-binary participants who are engaging in HIV self-testing through the Test@Home study. Virtual support is provided by toll-free phone/text or email to assist with HIV self-testing and to link with existing care pathways for treatment and prevention of HIV and other STBBIs.

Initiative Objectives and Goals

The goal of this study is to examine the acceptability, uptake and feasibility of HIV self-testing peer support amongst GBT2Q men and non-binary people. Secondary to this, Test Buddies aims to also examine the uptake of secondary distribution of HIV self-testing to the social and sexual networks for GBT2Q men and non-binary people.

The Role of this Initiative to End the HIV Epidemic

Appropriate connections to prevention or treatment are essential for HIV self-testing users and to end the HIV epidemic. The project’s Test Now Buddies will provide this support to Test@Home research participants.

Meaningful engagement with people with lived experience

This study aims to recruit 2500 GBT2Q participants and, through the connected Sex Now/Test@Home study, distribute up to 7500 HIV self-test kits.

Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC) promotes the health of gay men through research and intervention development. We are inclusive of bisexual and queer men (cis and trans) and Two-Spirit people. CBRC's core pillars—community-led research, knowledge exchange, network building, and leadership development—position the organization as a thought leader, transforming ideas into actions that make a difference in our communities. Within this study, CBRC aims to provide support to the 2300+ GBT2Q participants for the 6 month follow-up period.

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