What do you love most about working in STD prevention?

I really love teaching investigative techniques to DIS who are new to this field. Most people are prepared to discuss sex and STD’s. Most are ready to embrace the variety of topics discussed in relation to sexual health, but many are surprised that DIS do quite a bit of detective work. When the DIS explains that there is no way they are going find their patient with only the first name and phone number, we show them that it’s possible. From interviewing neighbors, making late night home visits, and using social media to analyzing prior cases and pouring through several data systems to find the one detail that will lead them to the person they’re looking for. Showing them that in this job you really are the “sex detectives” makes it fun!

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing our field?

Social media. Meeting people for discreet and/or anonymous sex is increasingly quick and easy. Social media apps require little information to get started and it’s

possible to meet someone for sex with just a description of yourself and your location. Because part of our job is to protect communities (not just individuals) from the spread of STDs, we may have to add to our message that exchanging information, even if you’re not planning on seeing the person again is also a form of practicing safer sex.

When you’re not working what’s your favorite thing to do with your free time?

When I’m not with DIS I’m doing D.I.Y. Give me a paintbrush, a tape measure, fabric swatches, a crafts store, vintage shop, or yard sale and I am in happy!