Sexual health care training needs of general practitioner trainers: a regional survey.
OBJECTIVE
The National Strategy for Sexual Health and HIV aims to facilitate improved patient access to sexual health care, primarily in general practice. This study aimed to identify sexual health care provision in general practitioner (GP) training practices and highlight training and resource implications of the strategy for GPs and prospective GPs.


METHODS
Data were gathered from interviews with five key representatives (all of whom had a special interest in GP training and/or sexual health care) and a self-completed questionnaire survey of all 374 GP trainers in the West Midlands region. The questionnaire was developed from the interviews and comprised three sections: sample characteristics; current practice; and 30 statements to elicit attitudes, knowledge and training implications. The questionnaire was mailed out in March 2002 with two re-mailings at 2-week intervals.


RESULTS
Most GP trainers (79%; n=295) returned completed questionnaires. Most respondents were already offering some 'Level 1 services' or were prepared to including cervical screening (100%; n=295), sexual history taking (95%; n=271), sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing (74%; n=217), HIV testing (68%; n=198) and contraceptive services (71%; n=208). However, most (86%; n=251) needed further information on the Strategy detail and its implications. Training needs in sexual history taking, STI testing and HIV testing were also highlighted. Most GP trainers (62%; n=181) believed GP registrars were relatively unprepared for sexual health care and proposed improved training and assessment. Appropriate nurse training should also be provided.


CONCLUSIONS
Although 82% (n=242) of respondents would implement the Strategy if properly resourced, considerable training and support needs were identified.
Markham
Wolfgang A
WA
School of Health and Social Studies, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK. wolfgang.markham@warwick.ac.uk
Bullock
Alison D
AD
Matthews
Philippa
P
Firmstone
Vickie R
VR
Kelly
Stephen
S
Field
Steve J
SJ
D002983:Clinical Competence; D005193:Family Planning Services; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008487:Medical History Taking / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom