Planned Parenthood Expands Herpes Treatment via Telehealth App

The initiative addresses a significant public health challenge, as nearly one in two adults carries oral herpes and one in eight deals with the genital form of the virus. By shifting to a telehealth model, the organization allows patients diagnosed with HSV-1 or HSV-2 to bypass traditional office visits. Users complete a clinical questionnaire through the app, which is then reviewed by a licensed provider to determine if a prescription is necessary. This medication is subsequently sent to a local pharmacy for pickup.

This digital expansion comes after a year of federal funding cuts that constrained in-person care options. Laura Mackay, CEO of PPDirect, emphasized that the service aims to remove the stigma surrounding the condition by offering private, judgment-free consultations. While the telehealth platform covers both outbreak management and prevention, the organization continues to encourage those requiring an initial diagnosis to visit local health centers for testing. The service is currently operational in 26 states and districts, including Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia.