When I first received notice of the DIS Scholarships to attend Engage 2017 I was immediately interested in applying. Though I was not initially chosen as one of the recipients, I was pleasantly surprised to receive an invitation and full sponsorship from NCSD to attend the conference. To me, this gesture demonstrated NCSD’s commitment to the DIS role and to supporting its continued growth as an integral part within the public health profession. Certainly, working as a DIS in STD and HIV prevention I have come to realize that our role requires continuous learning and professional development, and NCSD Engage 2017 definitely delivered in that regard.

There were many interesting breakout sessions this year, and it was difficult to choose which ones to attend. Sessions such as The Marriage of Shoe Leather and Modern Technology: A Skills-Building Workshop for DIS and You’re Going to Swab Me Where? STD Field Testing Outside the Clinic (and Urethra) in Colorado gave great insight into how public health professionals from other states are implementing innovative outreach ideas to expand testing, treatment, and partner services. The session that impacted me the most, however, was the DIS Networking Event. Not only was it fascinating to meet and share stories with other hard-working and dedicated DIS from around the country, but it was also eye opening to learn of the varied challenges that these DIS face in their jurisdictions. From the environmental and geographical differences that make it harder to help patients travel to healthcare providers in some U.S. Territories, to the social and economic blueprints of each state that give rise to very diverse and unique barriers when engaging clients to healthcare and other services, DIS are at the forefront working tirelessly to achieve lower HIV and STD transmission rates. DIS are a critical part of the public health workforce with an ever-changing role, and this session gave me a greater appreciation for the value and necessity of DIS work.

The future for DIS is bright given the variety of opportunities to contribute to true public health work.  I have experienced tremendous opportunity through field-based and clinic-based work in my own state, and I am eager to share and expand on the lessons learned at Engage 2017 about how to better implement and grow our field testing and internet partner services efforts. Indeed, I am thankful to NCSD for affording me the opportunity learn from leading professionals in the field, as well as to create meaningful connections with public health professionals from around the country.