At a glance
Jurisdictions are leaning into targeted STI prevention and treatment strategies by focusing on the needs and interests of local communities and delivering partnerships invested in meeting people where they are.
February 2023
The Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition (AHRC), now in its 28th year of operation, began as a program focused on addressing high rates of HIV in people who inject drugs. Today, it has evolved into a complete, one-stop shop for community outreach and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and treatment. This approach aligns with CDC's focus on adopting new and innovative ways of delivering prevention and care services that better reach people where they are to optimize health and improve quality of life. To implement its one-stop shop philosophy, AHRC has partnered with local health departments to increase STI prevention and treatment delivery for people in need. In the past year, they administered almost 1,000 tests for gonorrhea (treating 206 cases) and almost 400 for syphilis (treating more than 20 cases). They also distributed over 60,000 condoms in that time. AHRC also provides telehealth services, including direct access to STI test results and other health care needs. Lack of access to stable health care and other public services can put people at risk for certain health conditions. To help mitigate this situation for its patients, AHRC provides a broad range of STI prevention and treatment options – including STI testing and treatment, women's health services, and HIV linkage to care. AHRC also provides other forms of public assistance, including providing meals and shower facilities, as well. Funded in part through PS21-2102 and PS22-2203, AHRC currently has three locations throughout metro Atlanta. A revamped mobile health unit will also be available soon, and a fourth site is on track to open in late spring of 2023.