Georgia Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT) Locator
Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT)
Georgia Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT) Locator
Expedited partner therapy (EPT) is the clinical practice of treating sex partners of patients diagnosed with a treatable STD without the healthcare provider first examining the partner. Therefore, EPT allows sexual partners of individuals diagnosed with chlamydia to receive medications or prescriptions.
Individuals can receive screenings and treatment for STDs through their county health department and their private physician. All STDs are treatable, and a few are curable. If you are experiencing any STD symptoms or suspect that you may have an STD, you should immediately seek care from a trained healthcare provider.
As of 2017, by law ( Georgia Code: O.C.G.A. § 31-17-7.1 ), it is permissible for practitioners to prescribe and dispense prescription drugs for Expedited Partner Therapy in Georgia. EPT is permitted in 43 states and is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Click
here
for a map of EPT allowable states. The Georgia Department of Public Health has issued the following Rules of Expedited Partner Therapy for all practitioners and pharmacists and
EPT
Guidance for Healthcare Professionals
.
EPT can be delivered to a patient's partners through two different methods: in the form of a medication or the form of a prescription. Under O.C.G.A. § 31-17-7.1 and DPH rules and regulations, any pharmacist licensed within Georgia can dispense antibiotic drugs for EPT. While evaluating the partner and providing other needed health services would be ideal, it is often not feasible. The (CDC) has concluded that EPT is effective, safe, and acceptable to patients and partners.
Read more about EPT by clicking the dropdowns below, or you can download and print the newly updated pocket guide for partners, providers, and patients.
Expedited Therapy Partner: Information for Partners
Page last updated 6/5/23