Using health technology to improve STI detection in adolescents

Leveraging Health Information Technology to Reduce Health Disparities in Adolescent Health Outcomes: A Patient-Centered Approach

NA · Children's National Research Institute · NCT04372875

This study tests if using a special electronic tool in emergency rooms can help doctors find more sexually transmitted infections in teens and young adults aged 15-21 compared to regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment18500 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 21 Years
SexAll
SponsorChildren's National Research Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia)
Trial IDNCT04372875 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a sexual health survey-derived electronic clinical decision support system in increasing the detection rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adolescents aged 15-21 years in an emergency department setting. By comparing the STI detection rates between those receiving the electronic support and those receiving usual care, the study seeks to identify potential disparities in health outcomes. The research will also analyze detection rates based on sexual risk levels and race/ethnicity to understand broader implications for public health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents aged 15-21 years who are seeking care in the emergency department.

Not a fit: Patients who are critically ill, cognitively impaired, or unable to understand English will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved STI detection and management among adolescents, ultimately reducing health disparities.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using electronic decision support systems to improve health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adolescents aged 15-21 years seeking care in the emergency department

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients will be excluded if unable to understand English, are critically ill, cognitively impaired, or otherwise unable to provide consent for completion of the sexual health survey (SHS) and STI screening.

Where this trial is running

Washington D.C., District of Columbia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.