Managing genital infection in community family planning clinics: an alternative approach to holistic sexual health service provision. Issue 2 (30th March 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Evans, J; Baraitser, P; Cross, J; Bacon, L; Piper, J
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 80:Issue 2(2004)
• Page Start: 142
• Page End: 144
• Publication Date: 2004-03-30
• Subjects: sexually transmitted infection -- community family planning clinics -- evaluation; Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sti.2003.004382
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To pilot and evaluate sexually transmitted infection (STI) management in community family planning clinics (FPCs). Methods: Number of STI tests taken, positive results, infections treated, contacts traced/treated, referrals to specialist services and time from testing to treatment were documented as well as age and sex of the population tested. Results: STI tests taken increased from 233 to 308/month and male clients seen increased from 114 to 147/month across all clinics. Chlamydia prevalence rates in one large clinic increased from 6.7% to 11.9%. 82% of those with STIs in this clinic were treated. Of 44 clients treated for chlamydia, 84% had partner notification performed, 0.43 contacts were treated for every client with chlamydia and referrals to specialist services decreased. 70% of STIs were detected in clinic users under the age of 25 and 45.5% of clients tested under the age of 16 had an STI. Before STI treatment was available at FP clinics 52% of clients with STIs attended specialist services after referral and time from testing to treatment was 19 days. Managing STIs in the community increased treatment rates to 82% with a testing to treatment time of 10 days. Conclusions: The management of uncomplicated genital infection in community FPCs working in partnership with specialist services is a feasible and effective approach to holistic sexual health service provision.