Framing a Future Vision of Partner Services: Pathways for Enhancing Value and Impact

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States are at epidemic proportions, with 2.5 million cases – the largest number on record -- reported in 2019. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021) Partner services, a specific form of contact tracing focused on sexual partners, is a longstanding intervention for STI prevention. Today’s partner services programs are challenged by low levels of acceptance by clients. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and new investments in the disease intervention workforce as a result of the American Recovery Plan Act are affording an opportune moment for CDC and partner services programs to adapt to changes in the environment and to further partner services practice and impact.