A recent policy change at a UCHealth clinic in Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood has sparked concern among LGBTQ+ advocates, as it restricts male patients from self-collecting swabs for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This shift comes amid rising STI rates, raising worries that access to testing, particularly for gay and bisexual men, could be hindered.
Convenience Takes a Hit
Sean O’Connor, a Denver resident, highlighted the previous convenience offered by UCHealth’s Cherry Creek location. Patients could utilize a “standing order” system, eliminating the need for doctor referrals for STI testing after potential exposures. This streamlined process involved self-swabbing for the throat and rectum, completing the test within minutes.
The new policy mandates appointments with providers for STI testing, making the process less convenient and more intrusive, according to O’Connor. He acknowledges UCHealth’s efforts to accommodate patients, stating, “They’re doing their best to get people in, they just don’t have the capacity.”
Machine Restrictions Fuel Policy Shift
UCHealth spokesperson Dan Weaver explained that the policy change stems from limitations inherent in the testing machine. “The machine that analyzes the swabs only allows self-swabbing of the vagina,” he stated. Laboratories are bound by FDA regulations to adhere to manufacturer protocols, and deviations could compromise accuracy.
Weaver emphasized UCHealth’s commitment to patient care, stating, “Excellent care for all patients is our priority, and we are committed to helping patients access STI testing as conveniently as possible.”
Assessing the Impact
Skylar Patron, health equity manager for the LGBTQ+ advocacy group One Colorado, expressed concern about the potential gap in testing access created by the policy change. While acknowledging the availability of self-collection kits through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Patron notes that utilization remains limited.
Understanding STI Testing Methods
Different STIs require various testing methods. Swabbing the site of sexual contact can detect chlamydia and gonorrhea. Some infections, like syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis viruses, necessitate blood tests. Urine samples suffice for infections contracted via penis-vagina contact.
Antibiotics effectively treat chlamydia and gonorrhea, although drug-resistant gonorrhea cases are emerging.
Advocating for Increased Access
O’Connor emphasizes the importance of increasing STI testing access and reducing stigma. He hopes UCHealth finds a new vendor allowing for self-swabbing, particularly considering the rise in STI rates in Colorado and nationwide.
According to county-level data, Denver recorded 6,098 chlamydia infections and 2,428 gonorrhea infections in 2023.
“We need to increase access and decrease the stigma around being tested,” O’Connor said.
Take action: Learn more about STI testing options in your area and encourage open conversations about sexual health. Your health and well-being are paramount.