The role of private physicians in STD control in two inner-city communities in Houston, Texas

Although sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are particularly widespread in poor, largely minority, inner-city areas, little is known about the role private physicians play in these communities in STD control. A cross-sectional mail survey of private physicians potentially involved in STD management in two inner-city communities in Houston, Texas with STD prevalence rates well above city, state, and national averages was conducted to find the level and type of STD care provided. Twenty-seven of 65 physicians completed the survey. The survey found that the preventive orientation among private providers of medical care in these inner-city communities has to be increased to effectively control STDs.