The Mandatory Blood Testing Act (2006) allows blood samples to be taken from an individual or “source person” when victims of crime, emergency service workers, or Good Samaritans (e.g. emergency first aid providers) have been exposed to the source person’s bodily fluids (e.g. saliva, blood). The sample is tested for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
There are several requirements that must be met before the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) will consider an order and the process must follow strict timelines. There is the opportunity for voluntary testing within the process, as well as for appeals to decisions made.
Click on the links below to learn more about the Mandatory Blood Testing Act.
What is the purpose of the Mandatory Blood Testing Act?
The Mandatory Blood Testing Act reduces the time it takes for getting a mandatory blood test to less than three weeks. The law makes sure that those who are exposed can get faster access to information that can help them decide the best way to reduce their chances of getting sick if they are exposed to a blood bourne illness.
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Is there a time limit on making application?
The Medical Officer of Health responsible for the health unit where the source person lives must receive the application no more than seven days after the date of the occurrence. However, if the deadline falls on a Saturday, a Sunday or other holiday, the deadline is extended by one day.
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Where can I get more information about the process as well as the forms?
Please visit the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (MCSCS) website by clicking here. The MCSCS is responsible for the application process.
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If I am an emergency services worker, is there a different format to follow?
Emergency service workers (e.g. firefighters, police officers, paramedics) must follow the process as outlined on the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (MCSCS) website. Emergency service workers should contact their organization’s designated officer (DO) as this individual is aware of the process and can provide counselling to ensure all the proper steps are taken. Click here for more information on the DO.
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What role does the Health Unit play in mandatory blood testing?
The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) will receive and screen the application to make sure it meets the requirements of the Mandatory Blood Testing Act. The MOH will contact the source person to see if they are willing to voluntarily provide a sample. If the source person refuses, then the MOH will forward the application to the Consent and Capacity Board for a final decision. For more information on the Consent and Capacity Board process, click here.
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Where do I send my completed forms?
If the source person lives in the area serviced by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, the forms must be forwarded to the office of the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) at 999 Balmoral Street, Thunder Bay, P7B 6E7. The forms can also be faxed to (807) 625-5973. This is a confidential fax number located in the office of the MOH. For more information, please call the MOH’s office at 625-5965 or 1-888-294-6630, ext. 5965
If the source person lives in another health unit, please call the phone number listed at the bottom of the form to get a list of health units and the areas they cover.
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