Congenital Syphilis: Point-of-Care Testing

To the Editor A recent Viewpoint addressed the rise of congenital syphilis, which is an important public health issue, and mentioned the disproportionate rates of congenital syphilis experienced by certain communities, including American Indian and Alaska Native people. The authors stated that this epidemic may be better addressed with point-of-care (POC) testing, due to limitations of testing workflows and fewer resources available in rural settings. We have concerns that POC testing, especially if performed by an external organization, may widen health disparities for American Indian and Alaska Native individuals.