Background
I Want the Kit (IWTK) is an HIV and STI self-sample, mail-based program that was started at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 2004. The IWTK program offers free, accurate, and confidential at-home specimen collection and lab-based testing for common STIs (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis) and HIV. IWTK operates in partnership with regional partners to provide this program to their respective communities across select states.
The Center for Indigenous Health joined the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Indian Health Service, Southern Plains Tribal Health Board, and Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board in 2020 to work to address the recent increase in syphilis infections among American Indian and Alaskan Natives. Indigi-IWTK is a new campaign led by our coalition launched in 2023 in an effort to expand IWTK services across Indian Country. Indigi-IWTK includes outreach materials created in partnership with Tribal and rural communities and is focused on identifying new regional partners for service expansion.
Why use self-collection kits?
- It allows individuals to protect themselves & their partner/community.
- It is confidential.
- It is convenient and accessible.
- It removes the stigma that sometimes comes with STIs.
- Testing is act of love; it is a sign of responsibility and respect for yourself and others.
There are four simple steps to complete the process:
Interested in an STI self-sampling kit or HIV self-test? Visit iwantthekit.org and https://spthb.org/programs/our-grants/native-test/ for more information and to check availability in your area.
Contact information: If you have questions about this program, please reach out to Dr. Christopher Kempat ckemp11@jhu.edu or Abagail Edwards at aedwar64@jhu.edu.
Funding support has been provided by the Minority HIV/AIDS Fund and the Indian Health Service.