Not just “sex police”: Utilizing community-embedded disease intervention specialists to mobilize STD prevention and control in south los angeles

The notification and treatment of sex partners of an STD-infected person is a key strategy for STD prevention and control. Traditionally the Los Angeles County Division of HIV and STD Programs (DHSP) has worked independently of health agencies and clinical staff or within a single clinic site. California Family Health Council (CFHC), in partnership with DHSP, has implemented an innovative approach to facilitate partner management at multiple clinic sites located in South Los Angeles, afflicted by 40% of all Los Angeles County gonorrhea (GC) cases. Building upon the successful Community-Embedded Disease Intervention Specialist (CEDIS) syphilis program at a Los Angeles community clinic, CFHC hired two CEDIS to work with multiple clinics and community-based organizations located in South Los Angeles. Their role is to follow up with all GC- positive patients to ensure proper treatment, and identify their sexual partner(s) and networks. This approach is particularly critical, given the socioeconomic and racial/ ethnic disparities often experienced by STD-positive members in this population. In addition, the CEDIS work with community partners to leverage existing efforts and to link nontraditional partners from various sectors with the Los Angeles STD control plan. In this session we will discuss innovative approaches to partner elicitation, working with high-risk populations, identifying sexual networks, and building capacity within the community to enhance STD prevention and control.