P234 STI testing in HIV positive MSM patients: a missed opportunity?

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 1 in 20 men that have sex with men (MSM) are infected with HIV. The risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is higher in this population compared with heterosexuals. Therefore, it is important for HIV positive MSMs to have regular sexual health screening to reduce the risk of transmission of STIs and HIV., Consequently, the British HIV Association recommends that HIV positive MSMs should have annual STI screening. Furthermore, those that are classified as high-risk should be tested every 3 months., Methods: This audit retrospectively gathered case notes of HIV positive MSMs that have been seen in the last 12 months, October 2015 to November 2016. The following criteria were assessed: annual or 3 monthly screening of STIs, hepatitis B and C immunity status, patient age, evidence of high-risk behaviours and year of HIV diagnosis. The criteria for high-risk behaviour included: multiple partners (>2 in the last 12 months) and drug use. The data will be used to assess what proportion of patients are screened in line with national guidelines and to identify ways the practice can increase the uptake of screening., Results: The results show that 84% of cases were not screened annually for hepatitis C and 40% of patients were not receiving the minimum screening for STIs. However, 78% of patients were vaccinated against hepatitis B., Discussion: In conclusion, this audit shows that there is a failure to meet the minimum level of screening for this high-risk group. We aim to improve this via a new pro-forma and education., (C) 2017 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd