Creating a sexual health app to empower young people to get tested for STIs when needed

Background/Brief

STIs have risen consistently over the last two years and if left undetected can lead to serious health problems. London Agency research, with the target audience of women aged 18-36, found there was an interest to know more about their sexual health risk, but a lack of understanding around current public health information. The research found that a discreet reminder would encourage young people to attend sexual health checks.

“The app helps young people who might be a little bit timid about asking questions and it can give them some advice, particularly around sexually transmitted diseases and their risk thereof. This app is going to help people to go through a series of checklists to determine whether they need to see a health professional to have a sexual health check-up.”

Dr Karen Price

President of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)

What We Did

Following a high-impact campaign, Geni reached over 2 million young Australians, ignited digital discussions about sexual health, and resulted in more than 2,000 downloads.

The campaign challenge was to remove the stigma associated with sexual health and ensure young people felt empowered to continue to get tested for STIs if and when they need to.

Geni acts as a sexual health sidekick, giving users the most relevant and up-to-date information about sexual health so they can feel confident to speak to a healthcare provider.

Geni indicates a user’s risk of having an STI, creates optional, non-invasive, and discreet reminders about booking a sexual health check, and delivers informed advice about sexual health. When the app is first downloaded, users are asked to complete an optional short survey to determine their eligibility for a sexual health check. The survey questions are based on the questionnaire healthcare providers use before they conduct STI tests.

Based on the answers given, Geni determines if a person should attend a sexual health check. Users have the option to book an appointment directly through the app, set a discreet reminder to book an appointment in the future with their current healthcare provider, or with a doctor matched to their sexual health needs. This function means users know their status to keep themselves, and their partners safe.

Geni contains a bank of answers to frequently asked questions about sexual health, a clinic locator and monthly sexual health reminders. The content is designed to be shareable with friends, encouraging young people to feel empowered about their sexual health.