CHATSWORTH, Calif.—Performer Availability Screening Services (PASS) announced Tuesday that it has added new partner MPOWERR Health and Wellness of Atlanta, a non-profit healthcare organization that offers both testing and treatment of performers working in the PASS system. MPOWERR offers a full panel test for $125, but says those with insurance may pay as little as $50.
“With the global growth of the creator community, it’s critical that we work with labs and networks outside the major production hubs,” says Ian O’Brien, executive director of PASS. “MPOWERR is an incredible community-based organization that provides not only testing, but STI treatment, HIV care, PrEP, mental health and substance abuse services. They are already working with adult performers and creators, and we’re excited to welcome them to PASS.”
Currently, MPOWERR offers a PASS panel with a 48-hour turnaround, though at substantially less cost than other adult industry labs. Founder and CEO Taurus Jerelds has worked in public health on the local, state and federal levels for nearly two decades. He has professional experience working as a sexual health educator, disease investigator and epidemiologist, and says he’s working to secure grants and funding that would make the panel free with a faster turn around time.
“We’ve already been providing testing for performers, so we’re eager to connect with PASS,” says Jerelds. “I launched MPOWERR to help reach underserved and hard-to-reach populations, and I know the importance of being able to provide testing and care in a supportive, stigma-free environment. I’m excited to bring our services to the adult industry, and look forward to connecting with more of the incredible people working in it.”
Performers and creators can schedule a test at MPOWERR by calling (470) 875-8476 or (770) 742-0813. All results are provided electronically via the MPOWERR portal.
