US hybrid healthcare platform closes US$4.4m funding round to expand access to sexual care

The US sexual healthcare provider TBD Health has raised US$4.4m in seed funding to democratise access to inclusive sexual care.

The start-up, based in Las Vegas, is a hybrid sexual healthcare platform that offers sex-positive, “destigmatised” care to reduce the anxiety around STD testing.

The new financing, led by Tusk Venture Partners, will help the company expand its offerings nationally, including at-home STD testing and emergency contraception available via telehealth or in-person in its Las Vegas Care hub.

“At a time when women’s rights are being challenged by our government, it was critical for us to build a sex-positive healthcare company that makes it easy for people to prioritise their health,” said Daphne Chen, co-founder and co-CEO of TBD Health.

“As someone who has experienced firsthand the judgment that doctors and clinicians pass when it comes to sexual health, it’s our mission to create a safe space for people to seek inclusive, trauma-aware care, as well as treatment and resources on their own terms, regardless of where they live.”

Recent CDC data found that one in five people in the US have an STD, almost half of all new STDs are among people aged 15-24, and numbers are continuing to surge.

TBD Health aims to empower users to get tested and reduce the stigma and anxiety around sexual health through personalised clinician care and counselling.

Stephanie Estey, co-founder and co-CEO of TBD Health, said: “More and more we’re seeing local sexual health clinics nationwide shuttering due to lack of funding and resources. This leaves an immense strain on those who urgently need care.

“We seek to be a solution for those living in sexual health care deserts and beyond by offering a more accessible and approachable way to taking care of your sexual health.”

Bradley Tusk, managing partner and co-founder of Tusk Venture Partners, said: “Since Roe v Wade was overturned last year, it is critical for people to have accessible options to reproductive and sexual healthcare.

“We are proud to back TBD Health as they establish new standards for care through its STD testing kits, availability of emergency contraceptives with next-day shipping nationwide, and an in-person care hub in Las Vegas.”

The start-up is expected to announce new partnerships with employers, universities, and other digital health companies in the coming months.