Health Information Technology for Sexually Transmitted Infections

This trial tests whether a special electronic tool, SHS-derived CDS (Sexual Health Survey-derived Electronic Clinical Decision Support), can detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs) more effectively than usual care in emergency departments. The tool uses answers from a sexual health survey to help doctors identify who might need further testing or treatment. The study aims to determine if this method finds more STIs, particularly in individuals at higher risk due to their sexual activity or background. It seeks adolescents aged 15-21 who visit the emergency department and can complete the survey. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance STI detection and care.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that using a sexual health survey (SHS) to develop electronic tools for doctors can increase STI testing rates, particularly among high-risk teens. This tool aids doctors in deciding when to test for STIs by providing additional information from patient surveys.

No safety concerns have been reported with the SHS-based tool itself. Since this method focuses on improving testing decisions, it does not involve new medications or medical procedures. Instead, it employs technology to enhance healthcare decision-making.

Researchers are excited about the Health Information Technology for Sexually Transmitted Infections trial because it explores a new approach called SHS-derived CDS, which uses a sexual health survey to guide care for adolescents in emergency departments. Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on standard patient interviews and history-taking, this approach integrates clinical decision support (CDS) derived from survey responses, potentially streamlining the identification and management of sexually transmitted infections. This method aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment, making it a promising tool for improving adolescent sexual health outcomes.

Research has shown that electronic tools assisting doctors in decision-making can increase the detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In this trial, participants will receive either the SHS-derived CDS, an electronic clinical decision support tool, or usual care. One study found that a private electronic survey assessing STI risk in teenagers identified more cases. By integrating patient information into electronic health records, these tools can provide specific advice, enhancing the effectiveness of STI screening. Early results suggest that electronic decision support may lead to higher STI detection rates than usual methods, particularly in high-risk groups. This approach aims to improve STI detection by using technology to guide healthcare decisions more effectively.²⁵⁶⁷⁸