NORTHFIELD, Ill. (August 27, 2026) — As patients gain greater access to STI testing in the privacy of their own homes, pathologists are offering guidance on the latest testing options to help ensure patients receive accurate results and appropriate care. A new educational article from the College of American Pathologists (CAP), “Point-of-Care Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections: What Pathologists—and Patients—Should Know,” highlights how rapid point-of-care and emerging at-home tests can make STI testing more accessible while helping patients get answers and treatment sooner.
Some of the latest molecular tests can detect common STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea in about 20 minutes. That means many patients can be tested, diagnosed, and treated during the same appointment, reducing missed follow-up visits and helping prevent further spread of infection.
“Rapid STI testing is making it easier for patients to get the care they need without waiting days for results,” said Sheldon Campbell MD, PhD FCAP, chair of the CAP Point-of-Care Testing Committee and one of the authors of the article. “These advances have the potential to improve access to care, especially for people who may not be able to return for a follow-up visit.”
The article shares the details of the growing availability of at-home molecular STI tests and what these new technologies mean for patients, healthcare providers, and laboratories. While testing is becoming more convenient, the authors emphasize that laboratory professionals remain essential for ensuring test quality, interpreting results, and supporting public health.
The resource highlights how point-of-care testing can:
- Help patients receive treatment sooner.
- Reduce missed follow-up appointments.
- Improve access to testing in underserved communities.
- Support more appropriate antibiotic use.
As STI testing continues to evolve, the article encourages collaboration among clinicians, laboratory professionals, and public health experts to ensure these new technologies improve patient care while maintaining high standards of quality.
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About the College of American Pathologists
As the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. For more information, visit the CAP Newsroom, CAP.org and yourpathologist.org to watch pathologists at work and see the stories of the patients who trust them with their care.