S.T.I. Control Program

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) administers the Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Prevention Program to address the ongoing public health challenge posed by STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. These infections are known for their significant impact on public health, especially among vulnerable populations like women, adolescents, newborns, and men who have sex with men (MSM). The STI Prevention Program is situated within ODH's broader mission to ensure public health and improve health equity across the state of Ohio. Through this program, the department seeks to reduce morbidity and mortality linked to STIs and to mitigate the broader healthcare costs associated with untreated infections. The STI Prevention Program uses a multifaceted approach composed of six key strategies: community and individual behavior change, quality assurance for medical and lab services, partner services, leadership and program management, surveillance and data management, and training and professional development. Each component is designed to support both immediate care and long-term prevention efforts. Surveillance activities are regulated under Ohio Administrative Codes 3701-3-03 and 3701-3-04, which require the reporting of STI cases by laboratories and healthcare providers to local health departments. These cases are further reported to ODH for centralized tracking and resource allocation. Screening and early detection form another cornerstone of the program. Routine testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis is available at various healthcare venues, particularly those serving high-risk populations. The program supports these screenings financially through federal funding. Early identification of infections, followed by prompt treatment of patients and their partners, serves to limit the spread of STIs and reduce the potential for more severe complications and healthcare costs. In terms of treatment, the ODH STI Prevention Program provides medications at no cost to eligible clinics. These medications are intended for patients who cannot afford them and must be used in alignment with CDC STD Treatment Guidelines. Participating healthcare providers are expected to comply with these guidelines to ensure effective and standardized treatment outcomes. The availability of medications is contingent upon state and federal funding levels. Another vital component of the program is case interviewing and contact tracing. Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS), both at the local and state level, are involved in providing infected individuals with medical information, conducting interviews, and facilitating partner notification and treatment referrals. This process is integral to reducing further transmission within communities. Lastly, the program also emphasizes public education and technical assistance. It provides health departments and other stakeholders with resources such as educational materials, condoms, statistical summaries, and updated program and treatment guidelines. In-person training and additional materials can be requested via a dedicated email address. The program is ongoing and does not have a stated application deadline or competitive grant process listed in the available materials. Contact for further information is directed to the ODH STI Prevention Program at [email protected] or by mail at 246 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215.