Legislation Covers Cost of STI Home Testing

Madison, WI – Today, Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison) introduced legislation that would require health insurance plans to cover home test kits for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including any laboratory costs for processing the kits.

“STI testing is an important part of our physical and sexual health. For any sexually active person, regular STI testing is essential in protecting both ourselves and ensuring we don’t pass on infections to others.

“According to the CDC, 1 in 5 people in the United States have an STI. No one should feel ashamed for having an STI, or getting regularly tested for STIs, and it’s important that we make sure testing is accessible for all people. As some people prefer getting tested in the privacy of their own homes, it’s important that we make sure this type of testing is just as accessible as it would be in a clinic. Requiring health insurance to cover home testing for STI tests is yet another way we can take care of our physical and sexual health.

“Testing for STIs is a crucial part of our health and can prevent some infections from progressing into more serious, long-term health complications. It’s important that we’re not embarrassed to talk about it—STIs are common, and there are about 20 million new cases of STDs in the United States each year. We need legislation that will make sure testing for STIs is accessible and affordable, and I am committed to addressing this vital part of our health without stigma or shame.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.