Improve Member Outcomes and Close HEDIS Gap in Care with the Everly Health Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test for Health Plans
Medically reviewed by Morgan Spicer, Medical Communications Manager on March 19, 2024. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
The sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemic is showing no signs of slowing down, particularly among young Americans. [1] There are 20 million new STI cases annually with 1.6 million chlamydia infections each year alone. [1,2] Two-thirds of new chlamydia infections occur among young people ages 15-24 years old. [3] Untreated STIs not only take a major toll on patient health, but also contribute to significant medical costs, accounting for $16 billion annually – 60% of which goes toward sexual health care for young people. [4]
Screening is crucial to identify and treat STIs early, especially for chlamydia and gonorrhea since infections are often asymptomatic. In fact, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the Chlamydia Screening in Women (CHL) HEDIS measure set by the National Committee of Quality Assurance (NCQA) recommends that sexually-active women ages 16-24 years old screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea annually. If left untreated, some STIs can lead to serious and irreversible health issues, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased risk of becoming infected with HIV. [3]
Everly Health recently launched the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test for health plans and employers to help bridge the gap in sexual health care. The clinically-validated test fully satisfies the CHL HEDIS measure, and provides an easy and convenient way for members to proactively screen for these infections at home. If a positive result is detected, members have the opportunity to connect with a healthcare provider and receive treatment, if applicable.
Data shows that women overwhelmingly prefer and are more likely to screen for STIs at home. Supporting women with at-home screening is imperative to improve sexual health outcomes and reduce medical costs. Care for women accounted for nearly 75% of all STI-related medical costs in 2018, excluding HIV care. [4]
At-home STI screening enhances convenience and improves access for those in care deserts and marginalized communities. By supporting early detection and treatment, the Everly Health Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test for health plans and employers also helps minimize long-term claims and delivers care more cost-effectively. Our data shows that members are more engaged when offered an at-home testing option, with 67% of members actively participating during alert value outreach calls.
Everly Health's at-home Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test offers health plans and employers a comprehensive and innovative approach to sexual health care. By prioritizing member health outcomes, enhancing equity and access, providing cost-effective solutions, and promoting member engagement, Everly Health is revolutionizing the way individuals approach their sexual health.
To learn more, contact the Everly Health team at [email protected].
Related Content
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: Knowing the Difference
How to Test for Chlamydia: What You Need to Know
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. AMD: Battling HIV and STDs. Accessed on March 18, 2024. Available at: Medical Citation URL
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The State of STIs in the United States in 2022. Accessed on March 18, 2024. Available at: Medical Citation URL
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Detailed STD Facts - Chlamydia. Accessed on March 18, 2024. Available at: Medical Citation URL
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Incidence, Prevalence, and Cost of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United States. Accessed on March 18, 2024. Available at: Medical Citation URL