We are thrilled to announce that we’ve teamed up with imaware to offer discrete at-home STI tests for women and people who menstruate. Our co-branded STI test kit leverages the advanced capabilities of imaware, a leader in testing technology and digital health. We sat down with imaware’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Chet Robson to discuss our one-of-a-kind at-home STI test kit.
Dr. Robson, what inspired imaware to launch STI testing?
STIs impact 1 in 5 Americans and counting. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated their prevalence in the US, with rates of gonorrhea, syphilis and congenital syphilis surpassing 2019 levels 😧. The pandemic also had adverse effects on sexual health screening, causing significant declines in testing. As an antidote to the screening gap, we’ve developed our at-home STI test that is accessible, convenient and accurate.
What made The Pill Club the right partner to bring your first at-home STI test kit to market?
The Pill Club deeply understands women’s health and how unique each patient’s journey can be. STI testing is more than just a box and what’s inside; it’s critical to understand the worries and challenges patients face when they get tested -- from the cost of testing to sensitivities around discretion. imaware was created to make scientifically validated tools for screening and monitoring health more accessible and convenient, so we are extremely proud to be partnering with The Pill Club, a company closely aligned with our own mission.
imaware x The Pill Club’s test STI test kit clocks in at $150—why might someone choose this option over other mail-order test kits?
Using this kit is an easy and private process that will hopefully encourage more STI testing by mitigating the inconvenience, unease or discomfort that may occur with an in-person clinic visit. It not only allows you to screen for STIs from the comfort of your home, but with an eight-marker panel, this kit is one of the best value at-home STI tests available.
What STIs does this kit test for?
The test measures eight key biomarkers to screen for STIs which include: gonorrhoeae, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, mycoplasma genitalium (MG), ureaplasma urealyticum, syphilis and two herpes biomarkers.
How did imaware choose which STIs to test for?
The STIs in our test were chosen due to their clinical prevalence and relevance. The assay is intended to be comprehensive in order to reduce missed diagnosis. A missed diagnosis can lead to longer patient suffering, higher medical expenditures and further disease spreading. We’re on a mission to lay those barriers to care to rest.
Are the results accurate?
Our STI test results are very accurate. Our test uses multiplexed molecular assays that demonstrate robust clinical performance, including capabilities for rapid co-detection of multiple STIs from a single sample. All testing is performed in CLIA-approved and CAP-accredited laboratories.
Can you walk us through what someone needs to do once they receive their test kit in the mail?
You’ll first receive the test in a discreet package, right to your doorstep. Upon opening, you’ll find a container for collecting a small urine sample and instructions for mailing your sample to the lab. Typically, once a physician reviews your results, they'll be made available to you along with feedback on suggested next steps, such as following up with your doctor. For more detailed instructions, head to https://www.imaware.health/how-to-prepare.
How long will it take for someone to get their results from imaware?
Patients will receive their test results within 5 to 7 business days from the date their sample was shipped back to the lab.
What happens if someone tests positive for an STI(s)? Will imaware prescribe medication?
We are not currently offering prescriptions or consultations at this time. The next step is to provide your detailed report to your doctor to review. This will inform your treatment.
Is imaware x The Pill Club’s STI test kit covered under insurance?
imaware tests are covered by FSAs and HSAs as these accounts can be used to cover the costs of medical equipment or diagnostic devices. Please check with your benefits coordinator in advance to ensure the test qualifies with your particular plan. We provide an itemized receipt with each imaware test order that can be submitted to your FSA/HSA account. If you need any help with your receipt, please email [email protected]
What kind of packaging will test kits arrive in? Will it be discreet like The Pill Club’s packaging?
imaware tests arrive in completely discreet packaging, with no external markings to share what is inside. The only information on the plain envelope is the shipping label.
Anything else you’d like to share about this exciting launch?
This custom, one-of-a-kind test kit goes beyond existing at-home STI tests on the market to provide women and people who menstruate with a more comprehensive and accurate picture of their reproductive health.