Chlamydia and HIV testing, contraception advice, and free condoms offered in general practice: a qualitative interview study of young adults’ perceptions of this initiative

BACKGROUND: Opportunistic chlamydia screening is actively encouraged in English general practices. Based on recent policy changes, Public Health England piloted 3Cs and HIV in 2013–2014, integrating the offer of chlamydia testing with providing condoms, contraceptive information, and HIV testing (referred to as 3Cs and HIV) according to national guidelines. AIM: To determine young adults’ opinions of receiving a broader sexual health offer of 3Cs and HIV at their GP practice. DESIGN AND SETTING: Qualitative interviews were conducted in a general practice setting in England between March and June 2013. METHOD: Thirty interviews were conducted with nine male and 21 female patients aged 16–24 years, immediately before or after a routine practice attendance. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic framework. RESULTS: Participants indicated that the method of testing, timing, and the way the staff member approached the topic were important aspects to patients being offered 3Cs and HIV. Participants displayed a clear preference for 3Cs and HIV to be offered at the GP practice over other sexual health service providers. Participants highlighted convenience of the practice, assurance of confidentiality, and that the sexual health discussion was appropriate and routine. Barriers identified for patients were embarrassment, unease, lack of time, religion, and patients believing that certain patients could take offence. Suggested facilitators include raising awareness, reassuring confidentiality, and ensuring the offer is made in a professional and non-judgemental way at the end of the consultation. CONCLUSION: General practice staff should facilitate patients’ preferences by ensuring that 3Cs and HIV testing services are made available at their surgery and offered to appropriate patients in a non-judgemental way.