Both STIRR and DMSC demonstrate the feasibility of using the collective impact model to address jurisdictional STI epidemics, though expansion of community engagement and sustained funding are needed to fully realize the potential of such collaborative groups.
STI rates continue to increase nationally, with more STIs being diagnosed outside of traditional STI clinics.
The St. Louis STI Regional Response Coalition (STIRR) serves 12 counties and includes 25 member organizations with a membership base of 50 individuals.
The Denver Metro STI Coalition (DMSC) serves 5 counties and includes 22 member organizations with a broader membership base of 107 individuals.
Both coalitions produced multiple concrete outcomes addressing regional STI epidemics through the collective impact model.
Collective impact groups have had demonstrated success in supporting local HIV prevention efforts and addressing specific community gaps, providing a model for STI coalition work.
Expansion of community engagement and sustained funding are identified as necessary conditions to fully realize the potential of collective impact coalitions in addressing the US STI epidemic.
This research describes two regional coalitions — one in St. Louis (STIRR) and one in Denver (DMSC) — that were created to fight rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in their communities. Rather than relying solely on traditional STI clinics, these coalitions bring together diverse groups including health departments, hospitals, community health centers, and community organizations to coordinate prevention and care efforts across multiple counties. Both coalitions were modeled after similar groups that have successfully addressed HIV in their communities. The coalitions accomplished several practical outcomes, including evaluating local STI services, helping health departments improve their data dashboards, developing regional prevention strategies, sharing best practices with healthcare providers, and linking their work to existing HIV prevention initiatives. Resources developed by both groups are freely available on their websites for both healthcare workers and community members. This research suggests that the collective impact model — where many different types of organizations formally work together toward a shared goal — is a feasible way to address STI epidemics at a regional level. However, the authors note that expanding community participation and securing stable, long-term funding will be essential for these coalitions to reach their full potential in tackling the ongoing STI epidemic in the United States.
Lee G, Wendel K, Riba A, Weingarten L, Trolard A, Anderson T, et al.. (2025). Formalizing Partnerships: How Regional Coalitions in Sexual Health Can Address the Sexually Transmitted Infection Epidemic.. Sexually transmitted diseases. https://doi.org/10.1097/OLQ.0000000000002155