Abstract
Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a long-standing public health issue with increasing incidence in recent years even though most STIs can be effectively treated or even cured with inexpensive medications.Purpose/Design: In this manuscript, we discuss factors that contribute with this concerning scenario, including modifications in the model of STI care in the United States; barriers for diagnosis and treatment; and scarcity of targeted STI prevention messages. We then describe the approach adopted by AIDS Healthcare Foundation to mitigate STI trends, with a focus on sexual health Wellness Centers.Results: The main characteristics of this program include free and convenient services with large volume capacity, sex-positive culture, advertisement of available resources, and accessibility to key populations at higher risk for STI acquisition.Conclusions: This experience could be adapted and expanded to other settings, supporting the public health mission of controlling the spread and detrimental outcomes of STIs.