The British Columbia Nurses Union is criticizing plans to end STD and HIV testing at five clinics in the province's southern interior; however, Health Authority CEO Dr. Robert Halpenny said the services are being dropped because they are available at other sites. He said that the testing will be eliminated by the end January at the five facilities, but the clinics themselves - located in Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Grand Fords, and Cranbrook - will remain open. Debra McPherson, president of BCNU, said testing alternatives, including family physicians, are inadequate and not as cost-effective as the clinics.

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