Implementation Considerations for Electronic Partner Notification for Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, are increasing in Massachusetts.
• Electronic partner notification (ePN) offers a novel digital strategy to improve STI case finding and treatment.
• Priority populations, including men who have sex with men and transgender women, face unique challenges in accessing sexual health services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore implementation factors, barriers, and facilitators for electronic partner notification (ePN) among key populations in Massachusetts.
• To understand how to adapt ePN strategies to enhance uptake and effectiveness in diverse communities.
• To identify critical elements for successful statewide implementation of ePN.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing in-depth interviews with 60 participants (56 men who have sex with men, 4 transgender women).
• Utilized the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to guide data collection and analysis.
• Content analysis was used to identify themes related to barriers, facilitators, and adaptations for ePN.

Main Results:

• Participants generally responded positively to the concept of ePN.
• Key barriers included STI stigma, anonymous sexual encounters, and privacy concerns.
• Facilitators included familiarity with digital tools, trust in the notification source, and perceived value of partner notification.

Conclusions:

• Electronic partner notification (ePN) shows significant promise for controlling rising STI rates.
• Successful ePN implementation requires addressing stigma, building trust, and tailoring strategies to community needs.
• Understanding individual and contextual factors is crucial for optimizing ePN effectiveness.