expedited partner therapy

This new law will help reduce the rate of STDs by allowing providers to dispense a second dose of antibiotics for the partner of a patient being treated.

Expedited Partner Therapy was signed into law by Governor Doyle on May 11, 2010.

What are the Expedited Partner Therapy?

This law allow physicians, physician assistants or certified advanced practice nurse to prescribe and pharmacists to dispense an antimicrobial drug  for treating the three most common STDs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis) to a patient's partner or partners.   No medical evaluation or contact is required to occur with the partner.  As long as the medical prescriber or pharmacist acts within the provisions of the bills, they are immune from legal liability under these bills.

EPT is Needed in Wisconsin:

• Wisconsin is experiencing a public health crisis, with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) at an all time high.
• From 1999 through 2008, STD rates in Wisconsin have increased by 33%.
• Wisconsin has the 23rd highest Chlamydia rate in the country; and Milwaukee has the 2nd highest Chlamydia rate in the country.
• A 2009 study by the CDC found that 1 in 4 teens nationwide has at least one STD.
• In the United States, direct medical costs associated with STDs are estimated at up to $14.1 billion annually. 
• The public health impact of untreated STDs is enormous.  Untreated Gonorrhea and Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, chronic pain, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy.

EPT is a Proven Strategy for Reducing STDs

• EPT is more effective in preventing Chlamydia re-infection by 15% and Gonorrhea by 73% when compared to other partner management methods.
• There is no dispute in the public health community.  EPT is an efficient, effective way to stem the tide of the most common STDs.