Although most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are easy to treat and cure, severe and permanent complications can occur if ignored or if the disease is undetected or not appropriately treated. The State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health, STD Control Program attempts to interview all patients with syphilis. Some patients with gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV are interviewed to assist with partner notification. Patients are educated about their infection, counseled on how to avoid reinfection, and asked to confidentially provide the names and locating information of their sexual partners. Partners are confidentially located for screening and treatment by trained field staff without divulging the identity of the infected patient.

The following brochure explains what partner notification is and why it should be done: 

The STD Control Program also takes referrals from medical providers who have patients with gonorrhea or chlamydia that can’t be reached for treatment or are in need of partner notification services. Those patients are actively sought by field staff to assure that they and their partners receive adequate treatment and follow up services. Medical providers should emphasize the need for partner notification services with all infected patients.