NSW Health has launched the latest version of the STI/HIV Testing Tool for GPs and other primary care clinicians
NSW Health has launched the latest version of the STI/HIV Testing Tool for GPs and other primary care clinicians.
The tool shows you how to offer routine STI/HIV testing in different consultations; conduct a brief risk assessment (sexual history); conduct routine STI/HIV testing; conduct contact tracing; and, access available resources and additional support.
The development of the STI/HIV testing tool is in response to increasing STI notification rates over the last decade, particularly for gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia. The majority of these diagnoses are being made in primary care, hence why NSW Health has developed the tool to support clinicians to offer routine testing for STIs. Patients often report feeling more comfortable and willing to discuss their sexual health when routine STI testing is offered to them.
For an online version of the testing tool and other STI-related resources like clinical management guidelines and tools, patient factsheets and training/education, go to the NSW STI Programs Unit ’ website.
NSW Health have also re-launched their online learning modules which cover STI testing, management and contact tracing. The modules are free to access and attract RACGP and ACRRM CPD points:
·     STI management in general practice: Key features
·     STI management in general practice: Contact tracing
The NSW Sexual Health Infolink is also available for telephone and web-based clinical information and support in STI/HIV testing, management and contact tracing.
If you would like more information, you can contact Philip Tayler – NSW Health on phone 02 9332 9758 or email philip.tayler@health.nsw.gov.au
