Madison Reporter

Public Health Madison & Dane County has introduced a new initiative aimed at curbing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through digital means. The program, named Digital Partner Services, utilizes dating apps to inform individuals who may have been exposed to an STI, thereby enhancing outreach efforts.

“This modern approach will supplement our traditional in-person and phone-based partner services to help us reach more people, some who might not otherwise have been notified. The more widespread our notification efforts, the more testing and treatment can happen and that means less STI transmission in our community,” stated Naomi Clear, Partner Services Coordinator at Public Health.

The process involves trained Public Health staff working with clients to contact their partners via dating apps while maintaining privacy and confidentiality. Messages are sent anonymously, ensuring no personal information is disclosed about the individual who potentially exposed them. Staff search for usernames or IDs on apps and only proceed after confirming they have identified the correct person. Messaging is restricted to arranging a phone call where specific health information can be securely shared.

STIs remain prevalent in Dane County, with hundreds diagnosed monthly, primarily with chlamydia and gonorrhea. Although there has been a decrease in overall STI rates over the past five years in the county, HIV and syphilis rates, particularly congenital syphilis cases, continue to exceed national targets.

“Most STIs are curable and all are treatable. Roughly 1 in 2 sexually active people get an STI before age 25, and most do not have symptoms. So, as the dating landscape evolves, with more people meeting partners online, so does our strategy. Using digital partner services will help people get the information they need to be healthy,” added Clear.

Digital Partner Services is recognized as an evidence-based intervention by both the CDC and National Coalition of STD Directors.

Public Health offers free sexual health services including testing and treatment for STIs, pregnancy testing and counseling, various birth control methods among others. Appointments can be scheduled online or through their confidential phone line at 608-243-0411.