Congenital syphilis is a growing public health challenge in Missouri, with 2023 marking the highest number of cases in decades. To address this urgent issue, the Missouri Public Health Institute (MOPHI) launched the state’s first Congenital Syphilis Review Board (CSRB) in May 2024, in partnership with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The board brings together experts and community voices to examine real cases, identify missed opportunities for prevention and care, and recommend solutions that improve systems statewide.

The CSRB began with a review of 12 representative cases. MOPHI prepared case presentations that sparked critical discussion among participants. Since then, the board has held additional reviews, identifying dozens of actionable steps for healthcare providers, DHSS, and community partners. These steps range from improving prenatal testing practices to addressing social service gaps that put families at risk.

In February 2025, the CSRB held its second review, where 10 representative cases were discussed with partners. These conversations led to the identification of 36 potential action items for healthcare providers, DHSS, social services, and other public health groups. Participants engaged in their third review of nine representative cases in August 2025, contributing to another 27 potential action items to eliminate congenital syphilis.

To sustain this work, MOPHI developed training materials to help facilitators prepare future case reviews. Their work ensures the CSRB can continue building capacity and expanding its impact.

This effort has also been shaped by the contributions of multiple MOPHI interns:

• Nathan Dougherty (Spring 2024) – prepared case materials for the first CSRB, helping design and brand presentations that set the standard for future reviews.

• Sharon Wu (Fall 2024 and Spring 2025) – prepared case materials for the second CSRB and developed training materials to train future facilitators.

• Amber Gearhart (Summer 2025) – prepared case materials for the third CSRB and contributed to training materials to train future facilitators.

The CSRB is more than a review board—it is a catalyst for change. By surfacing gaps in the healthcare system and creating actionable recommendations, the board is laying the foundation for prevention and elimination of congenital syphilis in Missouri. Early signs suggest these efforts are working DHSS has reported declines in cases for 2024 as well as 2025 from preliminary data. Together, MOPHI, DHSS, and dedicated partners are proving that collaboration can drive meaningful progress against this devastating condition.