Raising the standards in sexually transmitted infection services

Services dealing with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been transformed in recent years with many Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) now commissioning a variety of STI services from different providers based on local needs. In recognition of these changes, and to ensure that quality is maintained throughout the NHS, the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH), together with the Medical Foundation for AIDS and Sexual Health (MedFASH), have produced Standards for the Management of STIs. The nine standards cover all aspects of STI management, from diagnosis and treatment to the wider public health role of infection control. The standards apply to all those involved in providing STI care. For public health nurses the management of infection, as well as advice to help prevent unwanted pregnancy, are particularly relevant. Of the nine standards in the document, Standard 1: Principles of STI care is the core standard and is the most pertinent for advising clients on how to access care. It also contains background knowledge about sexual health services and what clients may expect from them. Through raising awareness of the standards among all those involved in providing STI care, it is hoped that universal implementation will bring about significant public health benefits through preventing reinfection, reducing transmission and making the utmost of the resources available.