Improving Sexually Transmitted Disease Programs through Assessment, Assurance, Policy Development, and Prevention Strategies (STD AAPPS)

CDC’s Division of STD Prevention (DSTDP) launched Improving Sexually Transmitted Disease Programs through Assessment, Assurance, Policy Development, and Prevention Strategies, or STD-AAPPS, in January of 2014. STD-AAPPS, which runs through December of 2018, provides funding to 50 states, 7 cities, and two territories to decrease the burden and long term health effects of STDs.

This initiative represents a new vision and path for STD and HIV prevention, as it provides grantees flexibility to direct resources to support STD prevention activities that reflect their local situation. Additionally, STD-AAPPS enhances program capacity and supports modernization of the STD public health work force.

As the healthcare delivery system changes, STD AAPPS provides a framework for STD programs to leverage opportunities created by the transformed healthcare environment:

• Improvement of STD surveillance, electronic laboratory reporting, electronic health record case reporting and integrated data systems;
• Expanded, enhanced meaningful use of data for public health purposes;
• Participation in public health department billing efforts to receive reimbursement for services provided;
• Foster collaboration between public health and primary care to identify new ways to expand STD prevention services and quality of existing services;
• Support collaboration with state Medicaid programs and health insurance exchanges.