AI Article Synopsis
- High rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage conception in Lewisham have led to proposals for improved community STI services.
- The study involved interviews with 16 clients using a local community STI service, highlighting the importance of clinic environment and accessibility in reducing stigma and encouraging service use.
- Results show that the community STI service is well-received, but further research is needed to assess its appeal to clients who don't currently utilize such services.
Article Abstract
Background: Lewisham in South East London, UK has high rates of sexually transmitted infection (STI), termination of pregnancy and teenage conception. Greater community provision of STI services has been proposed nationally to address the current sexual health crisis but concern has been expressed about their quality. Lewisham Community Sexual and Reproductive Health (S&RH) Department has been providing testing and treatment for uncomplicated STI since 2002.
Objective: To explore the experiences of clients using a community STI service for testing and treatment.
Methods: A qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with 16 clients diagnosed with a STI and attending a South East London community STI service for treatment.
Results: Three main themes emerged during the analysis. The environment in sexual health clinics is important in determining the degree of stigma experienced by these clients. Easy access to a STI service is an important factor in determining clients' choice of services. This local community STI service provided an acceptable and satisfactory service to these clients requiring uncomplicated STI treatment.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that a community STI service is acceptable to clients using a community S&RH service. More research is urgently needed to determine whether community STI treatment would be acceptable to client groups who do not currently use such a service.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1783/147118907782102084 | DOI Listing |
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