Free and confidential HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C screenings will be available to the public starting Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the Joinville Employment and Services Center, located on Place de la Grève.
The testing process is quick and simple, requiring only a single drop of blood to produce results within approximately 15 minutes. This initiative aims to increase access to vital health screenings and raise awareness about the importance of preventative care and regular health monitoring – crucial steps in maintaining overall well-being.
The screening event is part of the Joinville Zero Long-Term Unemployment initiative and is being conducted in partnership with the CMSEA. These types of outreach programs are particularly important for reaching individuals who may not regularly access traditional healthcare settings.
The screenings are offered through a CAARUD (Centre d’Accueil et d’Accompagnement à la Réduction des risques pour Usagers de Drogues), which provides support and harm reduction services for people who use drugs, even if they are not actively seeking treatment. CAARUD centers focus on reducing the risks associated with drug use, including infections like hepatitis C and HIV, and cater to those facing significant marginalization, according to information from CAARUD – Intervenir Addictions.
CAARUD centers, funded by the Assurance Maladie, are operated by associations or public health institutions and may similarly manage addiction care, prevention, and support centers (CSAPA). The goal of these centers is to prevent and reduce harm related to psychoactive substance use, as outlined in French public health code (art. L3121-5), as detailed by Fondation Bon Sauveur.
Harm reduction strategies, like those employed by CAARUD, are designed to minimize the negative consequences of drug use for individuals and communities, offering a non-judgmental approach to healthcare. More information on harm reduction can be found at Drogues Info Service.
