P34 Partner notification for HIV: a regional outcome audit. (23rd May 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bell, G; Green, S; Cox, T; Naylor, S; Bennett, P; Dudley, S; Martin, J; Parsons, S; Rothwell, J; Allen, D; Beckett, W
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 88(2012)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A21
• Page End: A21
• Publication Date: 2012-05-23
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2012-050601c.34
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Partner notification (PN) for HIV facilitates early diagnosis among those at highest risk. Health advisers and HIV nurses from eight clinics (7 GUM, 1 ID) formed a regional HIV network public health group to optimise PN across the region by sharing intelligence of local HIV transmission and monitoring practice against national guidelines and standards. Since there is no national standard for HIV PN outcomes, we undertook a baseline local audit to inform discussion on the possibility of setting a regional standard. Objective: To conduct a baseline audit for HIV PN outcomes across the regional HIV network. Methods: HIV services across the network undertook a retrospective case note review of all patients newly diagnosed with HIV in 2011. Data were collected on the number of partners verified/reported as tested negative/positive before the index, or within 90, 180 or 360 days, following patient or provider referral. Results: Results received from 7/8 clinics are presented below (see abstract P34 table 1 ). Conclusions: Overall PN outcomes are good across the region, although there was wide variation between clinics which makes it difficult to set a single regional standard that is both challenging and achievable for all. Outcomes were verified for most partners, but not possible if tested at an unknown clinic or abroad. The majority of tested partners attended within 3 months, but a small number took up to a year, suggesting PN efforts should continue until the partner is deemed untraceable.