RCGP statement in response to NICE guidelines on one to
one interventions to reduce STIs and teenage
conceptions
27 February
2007
The RCGP welcomes this guidance and is pleased
to see that the role of General Practitioners in reducing sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage conceptions is
highlighted.
Over 90% of the population is registered with
a GP practice, with the majority consulting their GP at least once
a year. Family doctors and practice nurses are used to individual
discussions with patients for public health interventions such as
immunisations, contraception, physical activity and smoking
cessation, and are therefore ideally placed to help to reduce the
incidence of STIs and teenage conceptions.
Ensuring primary health care professionals are
appropriately trained to deliver care to a high standard is one of
the key objectives of the RCGP and its Sex, Drugs and HIV Task
Group is currently developing a course to support primary care
practitioners to implement these guidelines.
Dr Richard Ma, a practicing GP and member of
the RCGP Sex, Drugs and HIV Task Group, says: “I welcome this
important guidance from NICE. Whilst practices are already involved
in offering advice and support in this area, the implementation of
this guideline will improve consistency by bringing care in all
areas of the country up to the gold standard.
“With improved training, and the use of
structured behavioural interventions targeted at the right groups
of people, we can make a real difference to the sexual health of
young people and other vulnerable groups.”
Ends
For further information please contact Lorna
Fletcher on 0207 344 3136 or email press@rcgp.org.uk