P115 Six years of outreach testing- does it work?. (8th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Emerson, Carol; Wilson, Yvonne
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 93(2017)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A54
• Page End: A55
• Publication Date: 2017-06-08
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2017-053232.159
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: We have been running an outreach program since January 2009 in order to target high-risk MSM using sex on premise venues. Methods: Monthly outreach sessions to high-risk venues, inc annual pride events, run in conjunction with a LGBT organisation. Patients offered serological testing for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, triple site testing for Chlamydia/Gonorrhoea PCR and vaccination for hepatitis A and B. Results: Over 6years, 79 outreach sessions held, with 1305 assessments. 226 patients have attended more than once. 424 (68%) patients had never previously attended GUM and 391 (62%) had never had HIV testing. Testing found 13 HIV, 61 untreated syphilis (46 early), 4 chronic active hepatitis B, 63 Chlamydia (21 UR, 36 rec, 6 Th), 48 gonorrhoea (3 UR, 18 rec, 27 Th). All patients attended for follow up at GUM clinic. HIV never testers decreased from 34% 2009 to 14% 2014. Vaccines given 160 in 2009, 40 in 2014. Discussion: The outreach program is a very important initiative, reaching high risk men who very often would not have been tested (34% in 2009). There was a high rate of infection diagnosed. Over time less vaccines required, percentage of HIV 'never testers' dropped 34–14% and 6mthly testing increased 13–45%. The outreach has increased access and raised the profile of the health services offered by GUM.