A conceptual framework for the evolution of sexual medicine and a model for the development of alternative sexual health services: 10-year experience of the center for sexual and reproductive health.
BACKGROUND
Sexual health services are limited and inadequate to reduce factors that hinder treatment and adequate care, despite the growing interest for public awareness and prevention strategies.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to present an integrative conceptual framework, which led to the development of a model of alternative sexual health services and the 10-year experience of the practice of the service.


METHODS
Multiple-level needs assessments.


METHODS
The conceptual framework is composed of four distinct elements: (i) it adopts a social/ecological perspective; (ii) it assumes that results are optimal when multiple interventions are used; (iii) interventions are influenced by behavioral theories; and (iv) sexual health is conceptualized through the biopsychosocial model. Based on this model, a Sexual and Reproductive Health Center was developed, dedicated to research, education, and public awareness.


RESULTS
Over 10 years of experience show that the present approach constitutes a process which: (i) facilitates our understanding of the needs at individual, community, and system level; and (ii) increases the individuals', community and systems' capacity to control sexual health.


CONCLUSIONS
Alternative models for sexual and reproductive health services should be encouraged, in order for best practices to be explored and identified. In addition, future research in the effectiveness of such interventions shall be beneficial in order for evidence-based interventions to be designed.
Kirana
Paraskevi-Sofia
PS
Center for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece. pskirana@gmail.com
Papaharitou
Stamatis
S
Athanasiadis
Loukas
L
Nakopoulou
Evangelia
E
Salpiggidis
George
G
Moysidis
Kyriakos
K
Pipilaki
Chryssa
C
Hatzimouratidis
Konstantinos
K
Tzotstzis
Vassilios
V
Portseli
Aleka
A
Iraklidou
Maria
M
Apostolidis
Apostolos
A
Bekos
Athanasios
A
Hatzichristou
Dimitrios
D
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D018802:Patient-Centered Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D034121:Reproductive Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; D020018:Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; D019529:Sexuality / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013997:Time Factors