Test to treatment intervals within the Liverpool UK Chlamydia Screening Programme

F. Gill, S. Lavelle, G. Adams

Liverpool and South Sefton Chlamydia Screening Programme, Liverpool, UK

Introduction Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the under 25's. Infection rates have been rising steadily since the mid 1990's. The Liverpool Chlamydia Screening Programme has been acclaimed as one of the most successful in the country. Testing is available at 49 sites in the community, and treatment and partner notification at 11 of these sites. Since its establishment in 2004, it has managed over 20,000 tests, of which 12% are positive, with over a 95 % treatment rate.

Objective To evaluate whether current test to treatment intervals within the Screening Programme are acceptable. To examine reasons for any delay in treatment, and suggest ways of minimising them.

Method Audit of treatment intervals for opportunistically screened Chlamydia positive clients from 1st July 2005 to 31st December 2005. For those clients not treated within 3 weeks, a detailed review of all actions and communications was carried out. Results: A total of 568 clients tested positive. Of these, 394 (69%) were treated within 2 weeks of testing; and a further 94 (17%) within 3 weeks. Eventually 98% definitely received treatment.

Conclusion Overall treatment intervals within the Programme are acceptable. Community based management, and versatility of treatment sites and times, contribute towards successful treatment intervals. The main reasons for delays were client based. To improve treatment intervals, the importance of attending for treatment following a positive result should be reinforced. Correct client contact details must be procured. Although mobile phones greatly ease communication, numbers need to be accurate. Using texting and voice mail messages, if acceptable, enhance speed of action, but back-up addresses are still necessary in case the phone is unavailable.