Identifying the Need for and Availability of Evidence-Based Care for Sexually Transmitted Infections in Rural Primary Care Clinics.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Increasing rates of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may lead to increased HIV rates, as the STI and HIV epidemics are syndemic. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines recommend including extragenital (i.e., rectal and/or pharyngeal) STI screenings for certain populations at increased risk of STIs and concurrent infections with HIV.

Methods

A descriptive study was conducted by interviewing staff members from 4 rural primary care clinics in areas of high need for STI and HIV services in South Carolina. Qualitative data about their clinical practices in 2021 were obtained. The primary outcome was to determine the awareness and availability of health care services associated with STI and HIV care in these locations.

Results

Clini

SUBMITTER: Merrell MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11726064 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature