Targeted laboratory screening for sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections in Wisconsin.

Public health laboratories play an important role in screening programs for asymptomatic diseases of public health importance in high-risk and underserved populations. The implementation of targeted screening strategies for communicable diseases requires thorough planning and evaluation. The Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) systematically selects and evaluates laboratory tests used in communicable disease control programs coordinated by the Wisconsin Division of Public Health. To do this, the epidemiologic features of the disease in potential target populations are carefully assessed, with the choice of laboratory tests based on performance as well as practical and cost considerations. Laboratory testing at WSLH plays a crucial role in screening programs for sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections. Hallmarks of these programs are cross-sector collaboration, empirical selection of laboratory testing methods, and the use of epidemiologic data to develop and evaluate targeted screening strategies.