Based on CDC's Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021
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Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT) is:
- The practice of providing antibiotic therapy to the sex partners of persons diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) without an intervening medical evaluation
- Intended to reduce the likelihood of repeat infection in the index patient, and prevent the further spread of infection
- A valuable option for treating partners who are unlikely or unable to seek medical care
- Not a mandatory practice
- Not intended to replace traditional partner notification and management
- Legally permissible in most states
In Maryland, EPT for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis may be prescribed or dispensed by the following health care providers in accordance with their current scopes of practice:
- Licensed physicians
- Authorized physician assistants
- Advanced practice registered nurses
- Certain RNs in Local Health Departments
- Licensed pharmacists may dispense EPT
Center for Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention
1223 W Pratt St 2nd Floor
Baltimore, MD 21223
General Phone #:
410-767-6690
EPT questions: elisabeth.liebow@maryland.gov or shelley.bacchus@maryland.gov
Page last updated 2/3/2023