Community partnerships to optimize STI screening at an HBCU consortium

BackgroundSexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health concern among college students, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), where structural barriers may limit access to routine screening. Community-based partnerships represent a promising strategy to expand sexual health services and address persistent inequities.PurposeThis study evaluated the impact of an on-site STI screening program delivered through a partnership with a local community-based organization (CBO) on screening utilization, provider efficiency, and student satisfaction within an HBCU consortium.MethodsA retrospective chart review was conducted among students aged 17 years and older who received STI screening between August 2022 and April 2025. The intervention provided free testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis through a CBO operating 3 days per week within the student health center. Appointments were scheduled online, by phone, or via walk-in. Data included screening volumes, demographic characteristics, provider visit patterns, and satisfaction survey responses. Descriptive statistics compared outcomes before and after implementation.ResultsSTI screening volumes increased from 1692 during the pre-implementation period (August 2022-September 2023) to 1817 and 1950 during the first (October 2023-April 2024) and second (August 2024-April 2025) post-implementation periods, respectively. Shifting asymptomatic screening to the CBO increased provider capacity for non-STI primary care visits.ConclusionIntegrating a CBO into campus health services expanded access to STI screening, optimized provider workflow, and maintained high-quality, student-centered care. This partnership model offers a scalable, equity-focused approach for strengthening sexual health services at HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions.