A non-profit organization overseeing numerous sexual health clinics across British Columbia has warned that most of its locations could face closure without increased financial support from the provincial government. Options for Sexual Health, which operates 30 clinics, provides critical services such as birth control, STI testing, and sex education. The organization stated it has not received a significant funding increase in over 12 years, causing it to struggle with rising operational costs. Without a $1.5 million annual funding boost, the clinics could close, potentially leaving only five open with an $800,000 temporary funding increase. Executive Director Tiffany Melius emphasized the dire consequences for rural and remote communities with already limited reproductive healthcare resources. If closures occur, individuals needing services might be forced to seek emergency room care or travel long distances, posing a risk of an STI epidemic. Currently, the clinics serve approximately 14,000 people annually, focusing on vulnerable groups such as youth, newcomers, and the LGBTQ2+ community. Options has appealed to the provincial government for stable long-term funding solutions. The Ministry of Health has indicated ongoing collaboration with Options to address these funding challenges.
