Snohomish County, WA — In its first full year of operation, the Snohomish County Health Department’s STI (sexually transmitted infection) Clinic has delivered essential, life-changing care to over a thousand residents, playing a crucial role in early disease detection, treatment, and prevention while advancing health equity and reducing barriers to care.
“The outstanding first-year success of our STI clinic highlights the essential role our health department plays in safeguarding community wellness,” said Dennis Worsham, Director of the Snohomish County Health Department. “By providing accessible, direct services, we’re reaching a wide range of community members, underscoring the vital truth that public health initiatives are designed for everyone. Our commitment at the Health Department remains firm—fostering healthier communities through proactive care, education, and compassionate services for all people.”
Since opening in late 2023, the clinic has recorded 1,689 visits among 1,199 individuals, with over 3,000 STI tests performed in 2024 alone. Of those tested, 327 clients were found positive for at least one STI, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or HIV, many of whom may not have received timely treatment without the clinic’s services.
“This clinic is more than a medical service, it’s a lifeline,” said Katie Curtis, Snohomish County Health Department Prevention Services Division Director, adding, “We’ve been able to reach people experiencing homelessness, individuals with limited prenatal care, and young adults unaware of their status. These aren’t just numbers, they’re lives improved, and futures changed.”
The STI Clinic ranked among the top five clinic systems in the county for diagnosing new cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, responsible for identifying nearly eight percent of new Snohomish County cases in 2024.
Remarkably, syphilis cases identified at the clinic were treated, on average, three days sooner than cases diagnosed elsewhere. This expedited treatment is especially critical for pregnant patients, as syphilis can be transmitted in utero, leading to congenital syphilis. Congenital syphilis is associated with devastating outcomes, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and severe neonatal complications. Despite being almost entirely preventable with timely diagnosis and treatment, the U.S. reported over 3,700 cases of congenital syphilis in 2022—a more than threefold increase since 2017. In Washington State, cases have surged from just 1 in 2014 to 57 in 2023, with the most dramatic rise occurring between 2020 and 2021, when cases jumped from 10 to 53. Early identification and prompt treatment during pregnancy can reduce the risk of fetal transmission by nearly 90 percent, underscoring the public health importance of rapid clinical response.
While 88 percent of clients were Snohomish County residents, others traveled from across the region, a sign of the clinic’s growing reputation as a trusted source of care. Much of the clinic’s success stems from its integration with the STI Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) team, who conducted over two-thirds of all clinic visits, ensuring rapid follow-up and treatment for clients and their partners.
The clinic serves a racially and ethnically diverse client base, with a notable focus on populations historically underserved in healthcare. The clinic also saw a higher percentage of men who have sex with men (MSM) than is represented in the general county population, underscoring the clinic’s importance as an accessible, affirming space in the community, including for LGBTQ+ clients.
“Sexually transmitted infections don’t just affect individuals, they ripple through families, relationships, and the broader health of our community,” said Dr. James Lewis, Health Officer for the Snohomish County Health Department. “For too long, those most vulnerable have gone without the care and resources they need. This clinic is changing that. I’m incredibly proud of our team, who show up every day with empathy and expertise to provide judgment free, life-saving services. We’re not only treating infections, we are also breaking down stigma and filling a void that’s long been overlooked.”
While the numbers clearly demonstrate the clinic’s impact, thousands of visits, tests, and diagnoses, the true measure of success lies in the lives changed. Behind every data point is a person: someone who may not have otherwise had access to care, who received a timely diagnosis, or who found a trusted space to take charge of their health. The clinic’s greatest value is in its ability to reach people where they are in their life and connect them to care that is often lifesaving.
We have been able to care for the most vulnerable populations: those experiencing homelessness, those with limited prenatal care, and young patients unaware of their HIV status.
A homeless client, unreachable by phone after testing, was personally located by a staff member, who walked him to the clinic for treatment. “His symptoms resolved,” they shared. “Now, he returns every three months for screenings.”
Pregnant clients with limited or no prenatal care received treatment for syphilis, helping prevent congenital infections. “Some didn’t even know where to go for obstetric care, now they’re connected to full services,” said a provider.
Two young patients were identified with early-stage HIV during routine STI testing and linked to care within four weeks. “They’re now on antiretrovirals and supported by case management. That’s life-changing,” said staff.
60+ Mpox vaccines were administered, some delivered to patients’ homes, a move that improved access for high-risk individuals.
The Snohomish County STI Clinic, located in Everett, WA, provides confidential, low barrier testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections to individuals aged 14 and older. Open Monday through Friday, the clinic offers comprehensive services including testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis, along with treatment options for patients and their partners. No insurance is required, and services are designed to be accessible, inclusive, and supportive. Appointments are recommended but are not required. Walk-ins will be seen if time allows. To make an appointment, call the clinic at 425-339-5261 or visit the website for more information.
About the Snohomish County Health Department
The Snohomish County Health Department works to promote and protect the health of all county residents through innovative programs, direct services, and collaborative public health efforts. For more information, visit www.snohd.org.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
