Abstract
BackgroundPartner notification services (PNS) are highly effective in reducing transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). We assessed outcomes of PNS before and after integration of an on-site disease intervention specialist (DIS) at a publicly-funded STD clinic.MethodsFrom August 2014 to December 2015, patients testing positive for infectious syphilis or gonorrhea at the Rhode Island STD Clinic were referred to on-site DIS for partner notification. Data on PNS outcomes were reviewed for eight months before integration of DIS at the clinic and compared to eight months after.ResultsOf the 145 index patients referred for PNS during the study period (n = 58 before DIS integration, n = 87 after), 86% were interviewed. DIS integration resulted in a significantly greater proportion of index patients interviewed overall (92% versus 76%, p<0.01), on the day of diagnosis (85% versus 61%; p<0.01), and in person at the STD clinic (64% versus 11%; p<0.01). However, there was no significant difference in number of sexual partners named or treated.ConclusionsIntegrating DIS at a publicly-funded STD clinic resulted in a greater number of index cases interviewed, a greater number interviewed in person, and a greater number interviewed on the day of diagnosis. Challenges remain in identifying and engaging partners for treatment.
Highlights
Transmitted diseases (STDs) are a public health crisis in the United States (US), with the prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis increasing dramatically over the last ten years [1]
Integrating disease intervention specialist (DIS) at a publicly-funded sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) clinic resulted in a greater number of index cases interviewed, a greater number interviewed in person, and a greater number interviewed on the day of diagnosis
Rhode Island state law requires that the names of patients testing positive for infectious syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia be reported to Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for surveillance and partner notification purposes
Summary
Transmitted diseases (STDs) are a public health crisis in the United States (US), with the prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis increasing dramatically over the last ten years [1]. In 2016, the total number of cases of gonorrhea and infectious syphilis increased by 19% and 17%, respectively, compared to the prior year. Young people aged 15–24 years, people of color, and gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) experience a high burden of disease [1]. In 2016, there was a disproportionate number of gonorrhea cases (51%) diagnosed among Black individuals and MSM. Partner notification services (PNS) are highly effective in reducing transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). We assessed outcomes of PNS before and after integration of an on-site disease intervention specialist (DIS) at a publicly-funded STD clinic
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
