Pathology provision to support an online sexually transmitted infections testing service

Descriptions

The STI pathology provision is part of the Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton Level 3 Integrated Sexual Health service specification commissioned by the respective Local Authorities (Head commissioners).The service provides the processing of diagnostic samples by laboratory. The online STI testing service is required to support the mandated open access sexual health services, which includes access to free STI testing and treatment and partner notification.The online STI testing service supports patients that do not attend the commissioned Sexual Health service in person and low risk asymptomatic patients that attend clinics.Services provided include:1) An online risk assessment tool enabling clients to request screening for HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. Hepatitis B cAB and Hepititis C antibodies for men who have sex with men.2) Full STI testing for anyone over the age of 16. 15–24-year-old for Chlamydia only testing.3) Provision and dispatch of postal STI kits. 4) Results processing via a results management system and patient text messaging service.