02 November 26
Ending HIV
Your sexual health questions answered over the phone
NSW Sexual Health InfoLink, a free hotline for sexual health
Did you know about NSW’s free sexual health hotline? It’s called the Sexual Health InfoLink (1800 451 624), and it’s a phone number that you can call to access sexual health advice, answer questions and get linked to services like HIV and STI testing and PrEP. Pretty neat, right?
Why should you call NSW Sexual Health InfoLink (SHIL)?
In the age of instant messages, voice notes, and emails, phone calls can sometimes feel a little old-fashioned. But rather than that being a drawback, having a chat with a sexual health professional over the phone is actually one of the fastest and most reliable ways to seek care. No offence, Dr Google.
When you call the Sexual Health InfoLink, you are connected with a sexual health nurse, who can give you tailored sexual health advice that’s right for your circumstances.
What sexual health services does SHIL offer?
SHIL offers a range of services to the community, including:
- Confidential sexual health advice
- Referral to nearby or virtual HIV & STI testing services
- PrEP for people without Medicare
- Partner notification after a positive STI diagnosis
When can I call SHIL and what is the number?
You can call SHIL on 1800 451 624, Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 5:30 pm. The service is closed over the weekend and on public holidays.
Can I call SHIL if I’m worried about HIV transmission?
Absolutely! Speaking with a sexual health nurse at SHIL is a great way to understand your risk of transmission and to learn if there are next steps you should take, like accessing PEP to prevent transmission, or to get an HIV/STI checkup.
If you think you’ve been at recent risk of HIV, you can also call the PEP Hotline on 1800 737 669 to speak with a nurse and receive advice on your risk, whether you should start PEP and where you can access it.
How does SHIL help people without Medicare access PrEP?
If you live in NSW and don’t have Medicare, SHIL can help you access free PrEP by either linking you to a public sexual health clinic, where they’ll provide you with testing & PrEP, or through SHIL’s own telehealth service.
People with Medicare can still call and ask questions about PrEP and dosing; however, they’ll need to continue to access PrEP through GPs or online sexual health services.