New developments in service delivery. Are GP led sexual health clinics acceptable and satisfactory for patients attending?

Ir Med J. 2011 Mar;104(3):71-3.

Abstract

Worldwide, sexually transmitted infections (STls) are among the most common causes of disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate why people attend a community based sexual health clinic and the benefits and satisfaction levels of providing this service to them. Phase I of the study was a cross sectional survey. Phase II was a retrospective review. Phase 1: N ='80 (41 F, 39 M - mean age 24.8 (SD 6.49)), 45 (56.3%) requested a general sexual health screen. Phase 2: N = 273, (139 F, 134 M - mean age 23.7 (SD 5.87)) 47 (15.5%/) reported use of condoms, 126(41.6%) do not use condoms ever, while 73 (24.1%) reported using condoms sometimes. 47 individuals (17%) tested positive for chlamydia. Attendees to the clinic expressed a high level of satisfaction overall with the services provided. The low use of condoms amongst a subgroup of patients with several sexual partners and the high level of chlamydia are causes for concern.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Ambulatory Care Facilities* / organization & administration
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • General Practice
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Risk Factors
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / epidemiology
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control
  • Urban Population
  • Young Adult