For More Information Contact
Tiffany Cox, Public Information Officer, Office: 804-862-8951, Cell: 804-704-7554, tiffany.cox@vdh.virginia.gov
CHANGES TO HEALTH DEPARTMENT BILLING FOR STI SERVICES
Local health departments in Virginia will begin billing insurers and clients for sexually transmitted infection (STI) services on July 1, 2017. The purpose of this change is to ensure those in greatest need can access STI testing and treatment. Additionally, billing for STI testing and treatment will ensure the health department’s capacity to provide these services long-term. Furthermore, the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) federal funders are requiring billing for STI services. Nationwide, 75% of STI clinics are billing for services. Charges to clients will vary and will be based on a client’s income and insurance plan.
VDH is working hard to ensure this process occurs smoothly with as little disruption to clients as possible. VDH is committed to ensuring clients can still get the services they need, and will work with clients who are unable to pay. VDH will continue to ensure that patient confidentiality is maintained and any barriers to care are addressed. Due to the new billing process, all Crater Health District Health Departments will see clients by appointment with walk-ins accepted based on availability.
This change will affect what clients need to bring to appointments. Clients should bring proof of household income to determine if they are eligible for a discount in fees. Clients must also bring their insurance or Medicaid card so insurance can be billed. The Crater Health District Health Departments are dedicated to making sure clients who are unable to pay still receive necessary services.
For questions about STI prevention and where to get tested, contact the Virginia Disease Prevention Hotline at 1-800-533-4148. For questions about STI billing or to make an appointment, please call your local health department at:
• Dinwiddie Health Department- 804-469-3771
• Greensville/Emporia Health Department- 434-348-4210
• Hopewell Health Department- 804-458-1297
• Petersburg Health Department- 804-863-1652
• Prince George Health Department- 804-733-2630
• Surry Health Department- 757-294-3185
• Sussex Health Department- 434-246-8611
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