Author: Kailee Curtis

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infectious diseases that are passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact and sexual activity. Due to large numbers of cases and the potential for serious health consequences, STIs are a growing public health problem in Michigan. Local health departments work to control the spread of STIs through testing, treatment, prevention, and education.

Key Positions
Public Health Nurse
Clinic Assistant/Biller
Community Health Promotion Specialist
Public Health Physician

Combined FTE: 1.15

Aligns with BEDHD Strategic Priorities:

A strong, healthy start in life
Protect the community from potential health hazards
Enhance involvement, engagement, and collaboration

Meets Public Health Standards:

Funding Sources for BEDHD STI Programs:

ü	Michigan Public Health Code
ü	Michigan Local Public Health Accreditation
ü	Public Health Accreditation Board

State Grants

Local Funding

Fees

Services:
BEDHD staff implement STI programs which ensure Barry and Eaton county residents receive prevention, testing, and treatment for STIs. Prompt STI identification is important to prevent the spread of disease. Serious health problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and health complications for infants, can also result from STIs, so linking patients to treatment at either the health department or community partners is an essential function of the BEDHD STI program. BEDHD conducts health care provider education and site visits, condom distribution, expedited partner therapy, and community education.

Trends: In Barry and Eaton counties, cases of chlamydia increased by 360%, and cases of gonorrhea increased by 545%, from 2001 to 2016.

Health Improvement Efforts:

	Barry Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan
	Eaton Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan

Goals:
STI programs conducted by BEDHD prevent and control the spread of sexually transmitted diseases by:
Identifying cases through testing and reporting
Removing barriers, such as cost and access, to testing, treatment, and prevention methods
Providing education to patients, health care providers, and the community
Ensuring timely case reporting to the state health department
Impact:
In 2017, the BEDHD Wear One campaign distributed 16,400 condoms in Barry and Eaton counties.