Innovative Resources Could Help Improve Partner Notification for Chlamydia in Primary Care

Abstract

GPs want and need greater guidance and resources to assist them with partner notification for chlamydia. Resources utilizing the internet and practice software and mechanisms where GPs are automatically directed to these when chlamydia is diagnosed have wide appeal and the potential to improve the effectiveness of partner notification for chlamydia.

Partner management for sexually transmissible infections: better options and guidelines please

“…While studies suggest that PDPT is likely to reduce re-infection of the index patient, 11 concerns have been raised about this approach. While around half of Australian general practitioners have used PDPT for chlamydia, 3 many express mixed feelings about the practice in an environment where PDPT is neither supported by guidelines or specific legislation. 3,7 This practice, which involves a major departure from the traditional doctor-patient relationship, worries general practitioners because partners do not get checked for complications or contraindications to antibiotics and they are not screened for other STIs.…”

“…8,9 Research suggests that more guidance, resources and support for both practitioners and their patients would improve the outcomes from partner notification. 3,7,9 In this issue of Sexual Health, Shackleton et al 10 investigate the acceptability among clinicians working in London general practice of innovative measures aimed at improving the notification and management of partners of patients diagnosed with STIs. The novelty of their intervention is to be commended.…”

“…3,7 This practice, which involves a major departure from the traditional doctor-patient relationship, worries general practitioners because partners do not get checked for complications or contraindications to antibiotics and they are not screened for other STIs. 3,7 Do antibiotics get to the intended recipient? Does the partner understand what they are being treated for?…”

“…Hence the liberal use of PDPT by many Australian general practitioners, despite the overlying legal cloud and general practitioners' own personal misgivings. 3,5,12 Specific legislation supporting PDPT, as has been put forward in several states in the USA, but which is currently lacking in Australia, is required to protect practitioners. 13,14 Clinical guidelines dealing with PDPT would also be welcome.…”

“…Commonly reported difficulties include: poor knowledge and lack of guidance on best practice; discomfort discussing matters of a sexual nature; and uncertainty over patients' ability or willingness to contact their partners. [3][4][5][6][7] Moreover, while individuals diagnosed with STIs feel letting their partners know is the right thing to do, 8 understandably many find it difficult with only a fraction of recent partners informed of their risk. 8,9 Research suggests that more guidance, resources and support for both practitioners and their patients would improve the outcomes from partner notification.…”