P220 Expanding sexual health outreach provision for sex workers in the community

Abstract

Background/introduction Isolation of six consecutive cases of gonorrhoea amongst sex workers (SW) in 2012 led to a multiagency review of sexual health provision for this hard to reach group. It identified reluctance to access traditional integrated sexual health services in the area, so a more extensive community based outreach approach was implemented. Aim(s)/objectives To observe the uptake of sexual health screening and contraception in the community amongst SW. Methods Case note review of all SW seen in the community by the sexual health outreach nurse from July 2013 to January 2015. Results 99 SWs were seen during the study period. Median age 26(range 17 to 50), 95 were female with the majority identifying as white UK (65). 73 worked exclusively in sex parlours. 12 STIs were diagnosed amongst 98 SW screened. Of the 22 current IVDUs 11 tested positive to Hepatitis C whilst 3 were already known to have the infection. 96 SWs had used one or more forms of contraception prior to consultation including 92 who used condoms. Of female SW 22 commenced or continued injectable contraception and cervical cytology was performed on 18. Uptake of Hep B vaccination was consistent (73) with 24 already vaccinated or known to be Hep B immune. Discussion/conclusion Partnership working enhanced referral pathways, making access to sexual health screening easier for this hard to reach group. An increased uptake of STI screening, contraception and detecting untreated infections demonstrates that a flexible and opportunistic approach is beneficial for this client group.