Get an STI screen referral online. Bulk billed and confidential

What is an STI screen?

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) screen is a group of tests used to check for common infections that can be passed on through sexual contact. A typical screen in Australia covers chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C. Some of these are detected through a blood test, while others use urine samples or swabs depending on the infection and the site of possible exposure.

Many STIs do not cause obvious symptoms in the early stages. Regular screening is recommended by Australian sexual health guidelines for anyone who is sexually active, particularly after a new partner, after condomless sex, or if you have any concerns. Screening supports early detection, timely treatment, and reduces the risk of onward transmission.

When an STI screen is ordered

Your GP may recommend an STI screen if you have had a new sexual partner, if a previous partner has advised you to get tested, if you are experiencing symptoms such as unusual discharge, pelvic pain, genital sores, or a rash, or if you are starting a new relationship and both partners want a baseline check. Pregnancy care and pre-conception planning also typically include some sexual health screening.

If you are experiencing urinary symptoms, your GP may also consider other causes such as a urinary tract infection, which can sometimes present with similar discomfort. A telehealth appointment allows your GP to discuss your symptoms and risk factors in a private setting and order the most appropriate tests.

How to get an STI screen referral online

Book a telehealth consultation with a NewDoc GP and talk through your sexual health history, any symptoms, and your concerns. The conversation is confidential. If your GP determines an STI screen is clinically appropriate, the pathology referral will be emailed to you after the consultation. You then attend any pathology collection centre in Australia for the blood draw and, if needed, urine or swab samples.

Our sexual health telehealth service is designed to be private and judgement-free. The consultation is bulk billed for eligible Medicare patients, and the pathology tests are covered by Medicare when ordered on clinical grounds.

What to expect at the collection centre

Pathology collection centres across Australia handle sexual health testing as routine work. You do not need to announce what the tests are for, you simply present the referral and the collector will draw blood and provide instructions for any urine sample or self-collected swab. Appointments are usually brief, and most centres accept walk-ins or bookings.

Results are returned to your NewDoc GP, typically within a few business days. Your GP will then contact you privately to discuss the findings. If everything is clear, you will be reassured and given general advice on future screening. If a result is positive, your GP will explain the diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Understanding results

Your NewDoc GP will interpret your STI screen results in the context of your history and any symptoms. A clear result does not rule out infections acquired very recently, because each STI has a window period during which the test may not yet show a positive result. Your GP may recommend a repeat test a few weeks later in some cases to confirm.

If a result is positive, your GP will discuss treatment options, which may include a short course of antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral therapy for some viral infections, or referral to a sexual health specialist. All treatment decisions are subject to clinical appropriateness. Partner notification support is also available, and your GP can guide you through this with discretion.

When telehealth may not be suitable

Telehealth is well suited to arranging STI pathology referrals and discussing results. However, if you have visible genital lesions, severe pelvic pain, significant bleeding, or require an in-person examination, your GP may recommend attending a clinic or a dedicated sexual health service in person. Book a bulk billed telehealth consultation to discuss your situation and work out the right next step for your care.